Hurricane Response Guide for Environmental Public Health Professionals
Pro Tips Must Know Damage Assessment (Recreational Water) Treated Recreational Water (Swimming Pools, Waterparks, Water Playgrounds, Hot Tubs/Spas) Hot Tubs/Spas
Oceans, Lakes, Rivers (Untreated Water)
“ Hottub rash ,” a skin infection caused by
Description Outbreaks associated
Oceans, lakes, and rivers can be contaminated with pathogens from sewage spills, animal waste, water runoff following heavy rain, fecal incidents, and naturally occurring organisms. Illnesses associated with ocean, lake, and river exposure can vary based on the type of pathogen and can affect the gastrointestinal tract (e.g., diarrhea, vomiting), ears, eyes, skin, or central nervous system. Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) are visible colonies of cyanobacteria and microalgae. Contributors to the formation of HABs include nutrient pollution and warm water. Some HABs can create toxins that cause illness in people or animals through direct contact, ingestion, or inhalation. Cyanobacteria
with exposure to treated recreational water can be caused by pathogens or chemicals in venues such as pools, hot tubs/spas, and water playgrounds. The most frequently reported illness for treated-recreational-water- associated outbreak is diarrhea. Swallowing even a small amount of water contaminated with enteric pathogens can make swimmers sick.
Pseudomonas , is a common Recreational Water Illness (RWI) spread through improperly operated hot tubs and spas. Legionella can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a severe type of pneumonia, and Pontiac fever, a milder illness than Legionnaires’ disease without pneumonia; both diseases are commonly associated with improperly operated hot tubs/spas. High water temperatures and aerosolization of water pose a challenge for maintaining the disinfectant concentration. When disinfection concentration decreases, bacteria can amplify in hot tub and spa water.
are usually found in freshwater but have
occasionally caused coastal blooms, sometimes severe.
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