Fact Sheets on Healthy Swimming & Recreational Water Topics

The fact sheets below deal specifically with recreational water and are designed to address issues relevant to various audiences, including swimmers, parents with young children, aquatics staff, and public health professionals. These fact sheets raise awareness about recreational water illnesses (RWIs) and other healthy swimming topics. If you encounter problems with printing, you can learn more about printing these materials.

For Swimmers and Hot Tub Users

Pool User Information
Look; ask; act; practice...tips for preventing recreational water illnesses this summer when using the pool.
Hot Tub User Information
Heed; observe; talk...tips for preventing recreational water illnesses when using the hot tub or spa.
Pool and Spa Test Strips Home Test Instructions
Instructions for using pool and spa/hot tub test strips at home.

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For Pool Operators and Public Health Professionals

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Illnesses and Germs Commonly Spread Through Recreational Water in the U.S.

Cryptosporidium ("Crypto")
Giardia
Legionella
Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections
- Hot Tub Rash
- Swimmer's Ear

Illnesses and Germs Unlikely to be Spread in Recreational Water Facilities in the U.S.

Some illnesses, such as head lice, MRSA, and pinworm, are unlikely to be spread in recreational water. However, there is a potential risk for spreading them at recreational water facilities through contact with other people or contaminated objects and surfaces.