Many Vacations Are Poolside Escapes: How Germy Is the Public Pool?
On hot summer days, nothing beats cooling off with a refreshing swim. But have you ever wondered whether that sparkling blue water in the hotel or resort pool is as clean as it looks?
As infectious disease specialists remind us, swimming—especially in public pools and waterparks—comes with both benefits and risks. While pools promote relaxation, exercise, and social connection, they can also be sources of skin infections, gastrointestinal illness, and respiratory issues.
At Destinations Travel Clinic (DTC), we want our travelers to enjoy their vacations while staying healthy and safe. Here’s what you should know about the risks—and how to reduce them.
The Reality of Pool Germs
- Chlorine helps, but not instantly. It can take time to kill germs, and some microbes resist treatment.
- Cryptosporidium (Crypto): This parasite can survive up to 10 days in chlorinated water, spreading diarrhea if even tiny amounts of contaminated water are swallowed.
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Can cause hot tub rash and swimmer’s ear.
- Norovirus & adenovirus: Viruses that spread easily in shared water and cause stomach and respiratory illness.
- Chloramines: Byproducts formed when chlorine reacts with sweat and urine. A strong chlorine smell isn’t a sign of cleanliness—it’s a red flag for contamination.
How to Stay Safe in Public Pools While Traveling
The good news is most pool-related illnesses are preventable with simple precautions. Follow these tips to stay healthy poolside:
- Shower before swimming – at least one minute to rinse off oils and dirt.
- Don’t swim if you’re sick, especially with diarrhea or open wounds.
- Avoid swallowing pool water – it can carry invisible germs.
- Wait two weeks after diarrhea stops before returning to the pool if you had crypto.
- Take frequent bathroom breaks—especially for children.
- Change diapers away from the pool, and check them hourly.
- Dry ears well after swimming to prevent swimmer’s ear.
- Cover open cuts or wounds with waterproof bandages.
- Shower again after swimming to rinse off any germs.
- Stay alert for strong chlorine odors—it may signal contamination.
Travel Health and Pool Safety
When traveling abroad, pool standards may vary. Some destinations have excellent water sanitation, while others may not maintain pools to the same level as in Canada. This makes pool hygiene especially important for international travelers.
At Destinations Travel Clinic, we provide pre-travel counseling to help you:
- Understand infection risks at your destination, including pool and recreational water safety.
- Get recommended vaccinations and medications to reduce travel-related health risks.
- Learn practical precautions to stay safe and healthy—whether your trip is poolside, seaside, or adventure-filled.
📌 Before your next vacation, book a consultation with Destinations Travel Clinic. We’ll make sure you’re ready to dive into your trip—safely.
Stay Connected with Destinations Travel and Immunization Clinic!
If you found this article helpful, don’t forget to like, share, and Follow to stay up to date on our latest travel health tips, updates, and wellness advice.
And follow us on social media
And follow us on social media
Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied upon for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.
