Frequently Asked Questions

What are RWIs?

• Recreational water illnesses (RWIs) are caused by germs spread by swallowing, breathing in mists or aerosols of, or having contact with contaminated water in swimming pools, hot tubs, water parks, water play areas, interactive fountains, lakes, rivers, or oceans. RWIs can be a wide variety of infections, including stomach, skin, ear, respiratory, eye, neurologic and wound infections. The most commonly reported RWI is diarrhea.

How are RWIs spread?

• Swallowing water that has been contaminated with germs is the primary way RWIs are spread. Water can be contaminated from stool, sewage spills, animal waste and water runoff during rainfall. Some RWIs are caused by germs that live naturally in the environment. Proper disinfectant levels in pools or hot tubs will kill most germs.

Who can most likely get ill from RWI?

• Children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems (people living with AIDS, organ transplants, receiving chemotherapy) can suffer from more severe illness if infected.

How can I prevent RWI?

• Dont swim when you have diarrhea
• Dont swallow the water
• Wash your hands after using the toilet or changing diapers and shower with soap before swimming
• Take kids on bathroom breaks or check diapers often
• Change diapers in a bathroom or a diaper-changing area
• Wash your child thoroughly (especially the rear end) with soap and water before swimming