Talking Pools
Pseudomonas, an Emerging Threat in Swimming Pool Diseases
Water, the essence of life, can harbor imperceptible perils in the form of waterborne diseases. Within the United States, a multitude of cases of waterborne infections are contracted annually, imposing a substantial toll on public health. Pseudomonas and the RWIs (recreational water illnesses) derived from them are one concern in particular that swimmers need to be aware of.
What is Pseudomonas?
Pseudomonas is a type of bacteria, specifically the genus Pseudomonas, which includes various species. One of the species within this genus that is relevant to RWIs is Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common environmental bacterium that can cause infections in humans under certain circumstances. It is known to be an opportunistic pathogen, meaning it primarily affects people with weakened immune systems or those who are already ill.
When it comes to swimming pools, Pseudomonas aeruginosa can be of concern because it has the potential to cause a condition known as “hot tub rash” or “hot tub folliculitis.” This condition is characterized by itchy and sometimes painful red bumps or rash that develop on the skin after exposure to contaminated water, such as in hot tubs, pools, and water playgrounds.
The reasons why Pseudomonas aeruginosa can become a problem in swimming pool settings include:
- Warm Water: Pseudomonas bacteria thrive in warm water environments, which are often found in heated swimming pools and hot tubs.
- Moist Environment: The bacteria can survive and multiply in the moist environment of swimming pools and hot tubs, especially if proper water disinfection and maintenance practices are not followed.
- Insufficient Chlorination: Inadequate disinfection, usually due to low chlorine levels or poor maintenance of chlorine levels, can allow Pseudomonas bacteria to proliferate.
- Lack of Circulation: Stagnant water areas or poor water circulation can create pockets where bacteria can grow.
- Contaminated Water Sources: If the water supply to the pool or hot tub is contaminated with Pseudomonas bacteria, it can lead to infections among swimmers.
- Lack of Hygiene: Swimmers who don’t shower before entering the pool can introduce bacteria and other contaminants into the water.
A revolutionary study titled “Assessing the Burden of Waterborne Infectious Diseases by Exposure Pathway in the United States, 2014” has illuminated the magnitude of this concern, particularly concerning diseases emanating from swimming pools. This piece delves into the pivotal discoveries of the research and spotlights the profound insights shared by microbial physiologist Roy Vore and chemist Jenn Huang in an exclusive two-part episode of the Talking Pools Podcast on July 28, 2023.
The Startling Statistics of Pool-Linked Diseases
The study’s staggering figures reveal that in 2014 alone, the United States witnessed an excess of 7.15 million instances of domestically acquired waterborne infections. Tragically, these infections culminated in 120,000 hospitalizations and 6,600 fatalities. Such data underscores the exigent necessity to effectively address waterborne diseases.
A key facet of the study was the meticulous breakdown of disease incidence according to diverse exposure pathways: recreational water, potable water, and non-recreational non-potable (NRNP) water. Recreational water, encompassing pools, hot tubs, and natural water bodies, constituted the source for approximately 5.61 million illnesses, securing its place as the predominant exposure route.
Potable water, drawn from public systems, private wells, or commercial containers, accounted for around 1.13 million illnesses. NRNP water, employed for non-leisure activities like agriculture or medical applications, contributed to roughly 407,000 instances of waterborne ailments. Acquiring a comprehensive understanding of these exposure routes is pivotal in directing preventive actions and optimizing resource allocation.
The Role of Biofilms
The study also underscored the prominence of biofilms in waterborne infections. Biofilms form as thin layers of microorganisms on diverse surfaces within water systems, such as pipes and filters. Pathogens ensconced within biofilms present formidable challenges for eradication, serving as a substantial source of infections.
Insights from the Experts
In the episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, microbial physiologist Roy Vore and chemist Jenn Huang shared invaluable insights. They emphasized the necessity for water management initiatives to combat the proliferation of pathogens within biofilms, particularly within recreational water venues. Additionally, public health campaigns are pivotal in averting biofilm-related diseases and safeguarding community well-being.
Learn more at CPOClass.com:
https://cpoclass.com/swimming-pool-diseases/