Can You Get COVID-19 from a Swimming Pool?

The short answer is no, you cannot catch COVID-19 from a swimming pool. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the virus that causes COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, is not transmitted through water. However, proper care and adherence to safety measures can further reduce the risk of infection even in a pool setting.

The Mechanism of Transmission

COVID-19 primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. These droplets can travel through the air and contaminate surfaces, leading to transmission if another person comes into contact with those droplets or contaminated surfaces. Therefore, the risk of infection in a swimming pool is considered low because the virus is unlikely to survive long in water.

Risk Factors and Precautions

Chlorination: Most public swimming pools use chlorine or other disinfectants that can effectively kill the virus. Properly maintained pools with correct levels of chlorine are less likely to harbor the virus. Regular testing and monitoring of water quality can further reduce the risk of infection.

Close Contact: The primary risk factor is close contact with infected individuals, not the water itself. If people gather closely around the pool or in changing areas, the risk of transmission increases. Maintaining proper physical distance and avoiding crowded areas can help reduce the risk.

Hygiene Practices: Good hygiene practices, such as frequent hand washing, maintaining physical distance, and wearing masks when not in the water, can further minimize the risk of transmission. It’s essential to follow these guidelines, especially when in public spaces.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Pools

Outdoor Pools: Outdoor pools may pose a lower risk than indoor pools due to better ventilation. The ability to maintain more physical distance and air circulation can help reduce the spread of respiratory droplets. However, it’s still crucial to follow safety guidelines to minimize any risk.

Indoor Pools: While indoor pools provide a more controlled environment, they also present specific challenges. Proper ventilation, regular air filtration, and adherence to safety protocols can help mitigate risks. Proper spacing and group size limitations can also reduce close contact among swimmers.

Myths and Misconceptions

Myth 1: Water Transmits the Virus – It is a common misconception that the virus can spread through water. While it is true that water can contain pollutants, including trace amounts of the virus if present in human excrement, the virus is highly unlikely to remain infectious in properly chlorinated water. The risk of transmission is primarily through direct contact or close proximity to an infected individual.

Myth 2: The Virus Can Enter the Body Through Breathing – The virus is primarily airborne and enters the body through inhalation of respiratory droplets, not through water. While it is possible to breathe while swimming, the likelihood of the virus entering the body through water and causing infection is extremely low.

Myth 3: Lakes and the Sea are Riskier – Although lakes and the sea can contain various pollutants, the risk of transmission through water is negligible for the SARS-CoV-2 virus. As with swimming pools, proper chlorination and other treatment processes can significantly reduce the risk of viral transmission.

Conclusion

The likelihood of contracting COVID-19 in a swimming pool is low. However, following public health guidelines and safety measures is still essential to minimize any risks. Regular pool maintenance, proper hygiene practices, and maintaining physical distance are key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.

For more information on how to stay safe and healthy in and around swimming pools, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.