Are Parasites and Amoebas in Pools?

N. Fowleri

• Swimming pools do contain amoebas and parasites. Naegleria Fowleri is an example of one type that can be fatal to humans. According to Linda Shrieves of the "Orlando Sentinel" in an article published Mar. 25, 2011, this amoeba is normally found in the freshwater of rivers and lakes and multiplies during hotter months. It can be found, however, in swimming pools that are not well maintained. The amoeba, when inhaled up into the nose, can cause, in rare cases, a fatal brain infection.

Giardia

• Giardia is another type of microscopic parasite that can be found in swimming pools that have been contaminated with feces. Giardia is tolerant of chlorine, so cannot be killed by adding chemicals to a pool. If you know that an animal or human has defecated in your swimming pool, it is necessary to drain the pool in order to protect yourself, family and guests from giardiasis, a serious diarrheal illness.

Other Types

• Many other common species of amoebas are found in swimming pools. Most of these are harmless, such as the amoeba proteus and entamoeba coli. Entamoeba hisolytica, however, is another dangerous one found in pools that are not cleaned regularly. This organism causes amoebic dysentery, which is marked by severe diarrhea and fever.

Prevention

• McBride, Scicchitano & Leacox Law Group reports the Florida Department of Health suggests swimmers be aware of the possibility of amoebic infection, especially when the pool water rises above 80 degrees F or has not been regularly cleaned. Every pool should be maintained at a residual chlorine level of 1 to 2 parts per million of water and always immediately drained if exposed to feces. These steps will help prevent most amoebic illnesses.