Beware of water dangers

Alexis Barker
NLJ News Editor
 
With summer in full swing and outdoor water activities becoming more and more frequent for people across the state, the Wyoming Department of Health is warning people about the dangers of diseases that can be caught from water. 
According to a release June 17, people need to be aware of diseases that can be caught when swimming in pools, lakes and other bodies of water as well as the potential dangers associated with drinking contaminated water. 
Courtney Smith, WDH epidemiologist, reported that diseases such as cryptosporidiosis, giardiasis and shigellosis are threats in the state connected to recreational water. Symptoms of these diseases typically include diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea and loss of appetite.
She noted that many of these germs come from feces and that even a minimal amount can make people ill. 
“Some of these germs are very tolerant of chlorine and may not be killed right away. Cryptosporidium, in particular, can survive for more than 10 days in chlorinated water,” Smith said. 
“The germs causing these diseases also flourish in untreated water such as hot springs, lakes, rivers and streams,” Smith said. “So whether swimming or considering a drink during a hike, be aware of the risks. No one should drink untreated water even if it looks clear and clean.” 
Smith is advising people in the state to take the following steps to protect themselves while enjoying water activities, avoid swimming on days when experiencing diarrhea because germs can spread into the water and make others sick, people should not swallow swimming water and avoid getting water into their mouths, practice good hygiene and shower with soap at least one minute before swimming, and wash hands after using the restroom or changing diapers because germs in the body can end up in the water, avoid going to the bathroom while still in the water, and wash hands with soap and water after swimming before eating. 
She noted that parents of young children should remember to wash children before swimming, check diapers on a regular basis, avoid changing dirty diapers around the pool or lake and take children to the restroom on a regular basis, every 30 to 60 minutes. 
More information about healthy swimming is available at cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming.