700 Children's® – A Blog by Pediatric Experts

Avoiding Swimming Pool Germs

Aug 21, 2024
three kids smiling in a pool with their sunglasses on
Most private and public swimming pools do a good job of keeping water clean by using chemicals that kill many harmful bacteria. However, even the cleanest pool can still be a place where your child picks up — or transmits — some nasty infections. Your kids can avoid being on the giving or receiving end of illnesses commonly found at the pool by practicing a few simple tips.
  • Children should not swim when they are sick with a cold or stomach illness
  • They should always take a shower before getting in the pool
  • Children should never put pool water in their mouth – for fun, or by accident
  • If pool water is cloudy or you can’t see the bottom - it’s best to stay out

Swimming with Germs infographic

Following these simple tips can help your child avoid getting sick this summer. If your child does come in contact with swimming pool germs and experiences a skin infection, swimmer's ear, or other illness, visit your pediatrician or nearest Urgent Care for treatment.

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Featured Expert

Nationwide Children's Hospital Medical Professional
Alex Kemper, MD
Primary Care Pediatrics

Alex R. Kemper, MD, MPH, MS, is the division chief of Primary Care Pediatrics at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and professor of pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. His research focuses of a wide range of preventive services.

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About this Blog

Pediatric News You Can Use From America’s Largest Pediatric Hospital and Research Center

700 Children’s® features the most current pediatric health care information and research from our pediatric experts – physicians and specialists who have seen it all. Many of them are parents and bring a special understanding to what our patients and families experience. If you have a child – or care for a child – 700 Children’s was created especially for you.