Can COVID-19 Be Spread at the Pool or Beach?

Can COVID-19 Be Spread at the Pool or Beach?

(HealthyResearch.com) – The outdoors is calling out to those of us who enjoy playing at the ocean, visiting the local swimming pool or just enjoying the beautiful sunshine. With temperatures rising and most of the country going stir-crazy, nearby beaches and pools are starting to look pretty tempting. But are they safe to visit? Here’s what you need to know.

The CDC’s Recommendations

The CDC is encouraging people to get out and enjoy the nice weather — cautiously. Go ahead and visit your favorite spot to cool off, but remember to practice social distancing, even if you’re outside. You might have better air circulation around you, but that won’t make much of a difference if someone carrying the virus coughs right on you.

Check ahead of time to make sure public parks and pools are open and don’t travel far to reach your destination. The farther you go, the higher the chances that you’ll need to use a public restroom, stop for food and drinks or add gas to your car. Also, bring hygiene products like hand sanitizer in case the facilities where you’re at don’t offer access to soap or a sink. Practicing proper hand hygiene while you’re out is a must.

Don’t take chances on any locations that look crowded. If there’s any question as to whether you’ll be able to practice social distancing, leave. There’s a good possibility that some people will let their distancing slide, especially if they allow themselves to become too enthusiastic over their summer plans. You don’t want to take a chance that any of those people may have chosen the same destination as you. Remember, they might not look sick, but they could still be carrying the virus.

Staying Cautious in the Water

We still don’t know whether COVID-19 can spread via water, but it’s probably not a common route, says Consumer Reports. The virus is present in the mucus and saliva of infected individuals, and there is the possibility that it could find its way into your eyes or other mucus membranes if you swim in contaminated water.

The virus probably wouldn’t survive long in a chlorinated pool or briny ocean, and even if it did, the concentrations you’d be exposed to would probably be too diluted to infect you. It’s best to keep your head above water and the water out of your mouth if you’re swimming in a public area.

As long as you can do it safely, go ahead and have fun this summer. Now more than ever, we need to make memories and enjoy being alive. The seasons aren’t going on hold for COVID-19, and neither should you. Why not make the summer of 2020 one for the books?

~Here’s to Your Health & Safety!

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