Are public pools abroad safe? UAE experts weigh in on hygiene, chlorine rash risks

As residents travel abroad, medics in the UAE are urging everyone to be cautious while using public pools, bathhouses or going to water parks.

While a refreshing dip in the pool is a popular way to beat the summer heat, doctors caution that not all pools are as safe and clean as they might seem.

Poorly maintained pools can serve as breeding grounds for parasites, bacteria, and viruses — potentially leading to a range of illnesses including diarrhoea, skin rashes, ear infections, and even respiratory issues.

Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.

According to Verywell Health, the average adult swallows about one tablespoon of pool water during a 45-minute swim — “more than enough to make you sick,” according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The data further reveals that a person can bring 10 million microbes into a pool from their hair alone. Hands can carry another five million, and just one drop of spit can add eight million more.

While not all microbes are harmful, some pose serious health risks.

Dr Sherin Hussain, Specialist Internal Medicine at Medeor Hospital Abu Dhabi, highlighted the difference in pool maintenance standards across countries.

Dr Sherin Hussain. Photo supplied by Medeor Hospital Abu Dhabi

“Unlike the well-maintained pools in the UAE, swimming in poorly maintained pools can lead to stomach issues, skin rashes, and ear infections due to the presence of bacteria and parasites. In rare cases, contaminated aerosols may also trigger respiratory infections.”

“To prevent chlorine rashes and infections, make it a habit to shower both before and after swimming. Avoid swimming with open cuts, apply barrier creams, and use swim caps and earplugs,” added Hussain.

Although pools and water parks are commonly treated with chlorine and bromine to kill germs, they are not sterile environments.

What is Cryptosporidium?

In fact, some microbes such as Cryptosporidium — a parasite responsible for waterborne diarrhoea — can survive in well-maintained pools for over 10 days. The CDC advises staying out of water for at least two weeks after recovering from diarrhoea.

Even small amounts of faecal matter — equivalent to just “a few grains of sand” — can wash off bodies and contaminate pool water.

Dr Mazza Salahaldin, Specialist Family Medicine at NMC Specialty Hospital, Al Ain, warned of a variety of health issues associated with unclean pool water.

“These risks can stem from exposure to bacteria, viruses, and parasites in the water, or from chemical irritants used to maintain the pool.
Gastrointestinal illnesses can happen by swallowing contaminated pool water can lead to diarrhoea, vomiting, and stomach cramps, often caused by bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, or viruses like Norovirus. Bacterial skin infections can occur if bacteria enter through cuts or scrapes, or if the pool water is contaminated with bacteria like Staphylococcus. Swimmer's ear, an infection of the outer ear canal, can result from water remaining in the ear for extended periods.”

How often should public pools be cleaned?

Doctors frequently treat swimmers for eye and ear infections, high fever, stomach cramps, and diarrhoea after exposure to unkempt swimming facilities. Vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems are especially at risk of more severe symptoms.

Dr Salahaldin added, “Legionella bacteria, which can cause Legionnaires' disease, can be present in pool water and inhaled through mist or aerosols leading to respiratory infections.

While uncommon, eye infections like Acanthamoeba keratitis can occur from contaminated pool water. Over-chlorination or sensitivity to chlorine can cause skin irritation, dryness, itching, and rashes.”

Health professionals advise that public pools be cleaned at least two to three times per week and that the water should be changed at least once a month to maintain hygiene standards.

Dr Mohamed Sufiyan Shajahan. Photo supplied by Aster Clinic, Nuaimiah, Ajman

Dr Mohamed Sufiyan Shajahan, Specialist Internal Medicine at Aster Clinic, Nuaimiah, Ajman emphasised the need for stricter protocols during peak travel seasons.

“During peak seasons, crowded pools need strict maintenance. Proper chlorination, filtration and public hygiene practices are essential and should be encouraged to prevent waterborne diseases.”

UAE: Police share tips on how to protect children near swimming pools UAE: Don't jet-ski, swim or play in stagnant water, residents told as authorities warn of health risks