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Swimming pool

Question
I have a question about the warmth of pool water.
I'm not allowed to go to Center Parks because the water is too hot.
In Knokke-Heist a new swimming pool has opened. The water in the pool is 30° C.
Is it healthy to swim in the pool or should I stay out of it?
Answer
Dear reader,

Almost all patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) suffer from chronic respiratory infection, usually caused by germs like Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The latter is mostly found in our water environment. That explains why many questions about Pseudomonas concern water, swimming and other water sports.
Patients with cystic fibrosis are predisposed to lung infection caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In case of a new or recent infection, the germ can mostly be eradicated by treatment with antibiotics. Repeated Pseudomonas eradication with antibiotics makes it possible to postpone chronic infection. Pseudomonas eradication is an important part in the treatment of cystic fibrosis since chronic (permanent) presence of Pseudomonas in the airways usually implies a faster decline in lung function.

The Pseudomonas bacterium grows well in humid, preferably warm places like stagnant water. Exposure to these environmental bacteria cannot be avoided completely. But there is no unequivocal scientific proof that restriction of activities such as swimming and taking a shower would reduce infection with Pseudomonas.
In many European countries strict hygiene standards for public pools are imposed, where the water is tested for the presence of bacteria such as Pseudomonas. By proper disinfection and hygiene, the presence of high concentrations of Pseudomonas is rather unlikely. For tropical pools, it is more difficult to guarantee the quality of the water because bacteria grow much faster in heat and humidity. Therefore some centers discourage the visit of such subtropical swimming pools, even if there is no real proof of increased risk.
These preventive measures are not always based on evidence, and can differ from center to center, based on the local hygiene standards. A reasonable balance between sufficient prudence and ability to participate in social activities must be found. To our opinion swimming in public and private pools which are disinfected according to valid rules, contains no significant risk of contamination with Pseudomonas. Therefore, we would see no harm in swimming in the 30° pool you speak about since that is still colder than the typical tropical paradises.

We however also advise that you discuss this matter with your CF doctor.

Sincerely
Prof. K. de Boeck
04.11.2014