Pool Water Isn’t Always Clean: Common Infections Families Should Know About
Nothing says summer quite like a day at the pool. Whether you’re swimming laps, relaxing with friends, or watching your children splash in the water, swimming is one of the best ways to stay active and cool during the warmer months.
While properly maintained pools are generally safe, no pool is completely germ-free. Even chlorinated water can become contaminated when germs are introduced by swimmers or when pool maintenance isn’t adequate. As a result, certain infections can spread surprisingly easily.
Fortunately, understanding the risks—and taking a few simple precautions—can help you enjoy the water safely all summer long.
At Preferred Urgent Care, we commonly treat summer-related illnesses and infections, helping families recover quickly so they can get back to enjoying the season.
Can You Really Get Sick From a Swimming Pool?
Yes—but not every illness comes from “dirty” water.
Pool-related illnesses occur when bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi enter the water through infected swimmers, contaminated surfaces, or inadequate sanitation. Some germs are surprisingly resistant to chlorine and can survive long enough to infect others.
Children are especially vulnerable because they spend more time in the water and are more likely to accidentally swallow pool water.
The good news is that most pool-related illnesses are preventable.
Common Pool-Related Infections
Swimmer’s Ear (Otitis Externa)
One of the most common summer infections is swimmer’s ear, an infection of the outer ear canal caused when water becomes trapped inside the ear.
Symptoms may include:
- Ear pain
- Itching inside the ear
- Redness
- Drainage
- Hearing that feels muffled
Swimmer’s ear usually begins mildly but can become quite painful if left untreated.
Preferred Urgent Care provides prompt evaluation and treatment for ear infections, helping relieve discomfort before complications develop. Learn more about our Ear Infection Services:
https://preferredurgentcare.com/urgent-care-services/ear-infections
Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)
Red, irritated eyes after swimming aren’t always caused by chlorine.
In some cases, bacteria or viruses can lead to conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye.
Symptoms include:
- Red eyes
- Itching
- Tearing
- Eye discharge
- Light sensitivity
Good hygiene and avoiding shared towels can reduce your risk.
Gastrointestinal Illnesses
Accidentally swallowing contaminated pool water can expose swimmers to germs that cause stomach illnesses.
Common symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Fever
Certain parasites, such as Cryptosporidium (Crypto), are especially known for causing pool-related outbreaks because they can survive in chlorinated water longer than many other germs.
Young children and individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible.
Skin Rashes
Spending long periods in wet swimsuits or swimming in contaminated water can contribute to skin irritation or infections.
These may appear as:
- Red bumps
- Itching
- Rash
- Tender skin
- Inflamed hair follicles (hot tub folliculitis)
Most rashes improve with proper treatment and by avoiding further exposure.
Athlete’s Foot and Other Fungal Infections
Pool decks, locker rooms, and public showers are ideal environments for fungi to thrive.
Walking barefoot in these areas increases the risk of:
- Athlete’s foot
- Toenail fungus
- Plantar warts
Wearing sandals or water shoes in shared areas is one of the easiest ways to reduce your risk.
Respiratory Illnesses
Swimming facilities can also contribute to the spread of respiratory viruses through close contact—not necessarily through the water itself.
If someone swims while sick, viruses can spread through coughing, sneezing, or shared indoor spaces.
Children attending swim camps or group lessons may have an increased risk of common respiratory illnesses.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Although anyone can develop a pool-related illness, some individuals are more vulnerable, including:
- Infants and young children
- Older adults
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
- People with chronic medical conditions
These groups should be especially careful about hygiene and avoiding pools when they’re feeling ill.
Tips for Staying Healthy at the Pool
Fortunately, preventing pool-related illnesses is often simple.
Before Swimming
✔ Shower before entering the pool.
✔ Avoid swimming if you have diarrhea or are feeling sick.
✔ Cover any open cuts or wounds with waterproof bandages.
While Swimming
✔ Avoid swallowing pool water.
✔ Take children on regular bathroom breaks.
✔ Change diapers in designated changing areas—not poolside.
✔ Encourage children to take frequent breaks from the water.
After Swimming
✔ Shower with soap.
✔ Dry your ears thoroughly.
✔ Change out of wet swimsuits promptly.
✔ Wear sandals in locker rooms and public showers.
These habits not only protect you but also help keep pools healthier for everyone.
When Should You Visit Urgent Care?
Most minor irritations improve on their own, but medical evaluation is recommended if you experience:
- Persistent ear pain
- Fever after swimming
- Severe diarrhea or vomiting
- Red, painful eyes with discharge
- Skin infections that worsen
- Difficulty hearing
- Signs of dehydration
Prompt treatment can help prevent more serious complications and shorten recovery time.
How Preferred Urgent Care Can Help
Whether you’re dealing with swimmer’s ear, a stomach illness, a skin infection, or another summer-related concern, Preferred Urgent Care offers fast, convenient care for patients of all ages.
Our providers offer:
- Walk-in appointments
- Pediatric urgent care
- Evaluation of ear, skin, and gastrointestinal illnesses
- Diagnostic testing when appropriate
- Treatment for dehydration and minor infections
- Personalized care plans to help you recover quickly
Families can also learn more about our comprehensive Pediatric Urgent Care services here:
https://preferredurgentcare.com/urgent-care-services/pediatric-urgent-care
The Bottom Line
Swimming pools are meant to be places for fun, exercise, and making summer memories—but they aren’t completely free of germs. Fortunately, a few healthy habits can dramatically reduce your risk of infection while allowing you to enjoy everything summer has to offer.
If you or your child develops ear pain, stomach illness, a skin rash, or another illness after swimming, don’t ignore the symptoms.
Visit Preferred Urgent Care for prompt evaluation and expert treatment so you can get back to enjoying a safe, healthy summer.