Shigellosis is spread from person-to-person through the fecal-oral route (when an infected person has a bowel movement the germ is passed in the stool and then the germ is transferred by unwashed hands to the mouth). Particularly, the germ can be transferred at pools when people:
- Swim while currently, or recently, experiencing diarrhea
- Change diapers at pool sides
- Do not shower before using the pool or fail to properly wash after using the restroom
- Drink pool water
Healthy swimming is no accident and everyone has a responsibility to keep the pool clean. Swimmers should remember to:
- Stay out of the pool if currently or recently ill, especially with diarrhea
- Change diapers only in bathrooms and wash hands thoroughly afterwards
- Shower before entering the pool and wash their backsides well since fecal matter can remain even after wiping.
- Refrain from drinking pool water as the chlorine does not instantly kill germs