Parasites in Swimming Pools in Atlanta
Author Information
Author(s): Joan M. Shields, Elizabeth R. Gleim, Michael J. Beach
Primary Institution: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hypothesis
What is the baseline prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia intestinalis in non-outbreak-associated swimming pools?
Conclusion
The study found that 8.1% of sampled swimming pools were contaminated with either Cryptosporidium spp. or Giardia intestinalis.
Supporting Evidence
- 8.1% of the sampled pools were positive for either Cryptosporidium spp. or Giardia intestinalis.
- 10 out of 13 positive samples were found in community pools.
- Pools used by children had a higher prevalence of contamination compared to those designated for adults.
Takeaway
Some swimming pools have germs that can make you sick, and this study found that about 8 out of 100 pools had these germs.
Methodology
A convenience sample of 160 public swimming pools was tested for parasites using filter backwash samples collected over a 7-week period.
Potential Biases
The convenience sampling method may introduce bias, and the PCR detection sensitivity and specificity in pool backwash is unknown.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and was limited to pools with sand filters, which may not represent all pool types.
Participant Demographics
Pools were sampled from two metropolitan counties in Atlanta, Georgia, with a focus on those used by children and adults.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.5–21.8
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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