Waterborne Diseases can be lurking in the water, which is the source of all life. In the United States alone, waterborne diseases are responsible for a large number of illnesses. Swimming is especially at risk from Pseudomonas, and the RWIs that result.
What is Pseudomonas bacteria?
Pseudomonas belongs to the type bacteria. It is divided into several species. Pseudomonas Aeruginosa is one of the species in this genus which is relevant to RWIs. Pseudomonas Aeruginosa can cause infection in humans when certain conditions are met. It is an opportunistic bacterium, which means that it affects mainly people who have weakened immune systems.
Pseudomonas Aeruginosa is of concern when it comes to swimming pool Pseudomonas. This bacteria can cause “hot-tub rash,” or “hot-tub folliculitis,” which causes itchy, sometimes painful, red bumps on the skin. These occur after being exposed to contaminated water in pools, hot tubs and water playgrounds.
Pseudomonas can cause problems in swimming pools for a number of reasons, including:
- Warm water: Pseudomonas bacteria flourish in warm water environments. These are commonly found in heated pools and hot tubs.
- Moist environment: Bacteria can survive and multiplie in the moist environments of hot tubs and swimming pools, especially if water disinfection practices and maintenance are not followed.
- Insufficient chlorination: Inadequate sanitation, due to low levels of chlorine or poor maintenance, can lead to the proliferation of Pseudomonas.
- Lack Circulation Stagnant areas of water or poor water circulation may create pockets for bacteria to grow.
- Contaminated Sources of Water: Infections can be caused by contaminated water sources, such as the hot tub or pool.
- Lack Of Hygiene: Swimming pool water can be contaminated by swimmers who do not shower before entering.
This study, ” Assessing The Burden Of Waterborne Infectious diseases By Exposure Pathway In the United States, 2014.“, has shed light on the importance of the issue, especially in relation to the pool-related illnesses. This article explores the key findings of the research, and highlights the profound insights that chemist Jenn Hu and microbial physiologist Roy Vore shared in an exclusive two part episode of Talking Pools podcast scheduled for July 28, 2023.
Statistics on Pool-Linked Diseases
In 2014, the United States experienced an excess of 7,15 million instances domestically acquired waterborne infection. These infections resulted in 120,000 hospitalizations, and 6,600 deaths. These data highlight the urgent need to address waterborne disease.
The study found that recreational water (including pools, hot tubs, and natural water bodies) was responsible for approximately a href=”https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/eid/article/29/7/23-0231_article#::text=In%202014%2C%20a%20total%20of,1.29%20million)%20to%20NRND%20water. Recreational water, encompassing pools, hot tubs, and natural water bodies, constituted the source for approximately
Around 1,13 million illnesses were caused by water that was drawn from public or private systems, wells, and commercial containers. NRNP water used for agricultural or medical purposes, but not for leisure, caused approximately 407,000 waterborne illnesses. Understanding these exposure routes will help optimize resource allocation and direct preventive measures.
Biofilms: What are they?
The study also highlighted the importance of biofilms for waterborne infections. Biofilms are thin microorganism layers that form on surfaces of water systems such as filters and pipes. Biofilms, which contain pathogens that are difficult to eradicate, can be a significant source of infection.
Experts’ insights
The Talking Pools Podcast featured a conversation between Roy Vore, a microbial physiologist, and Jenn Huang. Both experts shared valuable insights. They stressed the importance of water management initiatives in combating the proliferation and spread of pathogens found within biofilms. This is especially true for recreational water venues. Public health campaigns can also be crucial in protecting the community from biofilm-related illnesses.
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