Pool Time During A Pandemic?

Spending lazy days at the pool is the definition of summer fun. Based on what we know of the novel coronavirus, is the pool going to be a safe place?

Research has been fairly clear that SARS-CoV2 is not a robust virus. In other words, the outside shell of the viral particle is easy to break apart, essentially “killing” it. This is why vigorous hand washing and the correct use of hand sanitizer remains critical to infection reduction. This information is also relevant to the pool question because the CDC has shown that a well-maintained swimming pool (traditional chlorine systems or residential saltwater systems) should have enough chlorine to kill the virus.

So, this is good news for the summer pool, right? Well…. Keep reading. 

The challenge at the pool is the behaviors that make the pool fun. Pool deck picnics, big herds of friends, sunbathing for long period of time (with SPF 30+ sunblock, of course :-)), pools games and toys, kids of all ages in the same space. All these things that make pool time memorable are the same activities that can transmit the virus. 

Let’s be honest. Pool deck furniture is rarely cleaned. The bathrooms? Wet and wild. Kids run from the pool to grab a snack without washing hands. Water games, ball toss, and shared floats are the norm. Because kids. And toddlers running on the pool deck who are not potty trained? I have not even talked about fecal transfer of the virus. Yuck. 

With what we know today, here’s how I would stratify summer pool time:

Residential pools: If you own and maintain your own pool, enjoy. The rest of us are jealous. I would consider limiting the number of guests early in the summer to be able to maintain physical distancing. Keep the bathroom clean that everyone will use. Keep snacks and bevs away from the pool edge to encourage everyone to wash hands or grab hand sanitizer first. We will continue to understand more about the virus in our local community as the weeks pass. Until then, I would hold off hosting large pool parties (or going to a large pool party) until we know more. 

Country club pools: The CDC has offered extensive guidelines and suggestions for pool reopening. The list is long and arduous, but does cover all the basics of safer pool operation. Local country clubs have the luxury of controlling some of these factors because the community members have their membership privileges on the line. That motivation is helpful in moving forward and keeping everyone following the rules. Things I would look for? I would want my club to limit the number of visitors as recommended by the local health department. Deck chairs should be well-spaced between families. The time of the visit should be shortened, so no all-day pool marathons. No food or bev on the pool deck. Bathrooms meticulously maintained. Pool deck furniture cleaned between guest use. And I would want lifeguards and staff physically present to help members with routine cleaning and enforce spacial distance while on the deck and in the pool. Don’t go to the pool if you are sick and wash your hands well before your leave.

Neighborhood pools: I know you have been spying on your neighbors for the last 6 weeks. Have you been pleased with their behavior? Jumping into the neighborhood pool depends on your community, so how much do you trust your neighbor? Assuming your neighborhood pool is well-maintained, the same direct risks apply. But most neighborhood pools do not have lifeguards or staff to consistently monitor guest numbers, distancing, and cleanliness. This makes the environment more risky. If you choose to go, bring some extra cleaning agents to wipe down the pool furniture, limit the duration of your stay, be sure your chairs are well spaced, keep the food and bev at home, limit restroom use, wash up after you get home.

City pools and water parks: Not yet. 

What about swim lessons?: Our local swim centers have done a great job following the guidelines of the CDC and local health departments. Swim lessons will have limited student groups, appropriate spacing and limited facility use. Choose swim companies that allow families flexibility to make up lessons without penalty. Talk to your local swim center to discuss their policies and trust your gut. Yes, swimming lessons are important for water awareness for children over the age of one year. The risk of infection, however, may be greater in your area than the immediate need for swim lessons in the next few months. 

Time at the beach? Open water swimming is low infection risk. However, every beach across the nation seems to be making different rules for beachgoers to comply. Here’s an example from LA. How these recommendations will be followed by the general public and enforced by local law enforcement remains to be seen. Look into local rules before you travel to see if the environment seems compatible with your safety and pleasure. And remember, non-essential travel of all types is still not recommended.

Lap swimming at the local rec center? Limit time in the locker room and keep six feet between lanes. Avoid loitering for space and keep appropriate distance from other visitors. No shared equipment. This activity should be low risk. 

Swim team? Maybe. Again, this will depend on numbers of participants, time on the pool deck, shared equipment, cleanliness of the restrooms, and the management of spectators. Lean into your local swim teams to see what they are doing to keep everyone safe. Trust your gut and be ready to pull your child from the team if things are not going to plan. 

The bottom line: During this pool season, I’m not worried that my patients are jumping into a pool of live coronavirus. I worry that all the activities around the pool that make the pool great will be the same activities that put our kids and families at risk. If those behaviors can be mitigated and monitored, the pool is a strong maybe for the summer. Lean into your local experts for guidance based on COVID-19 cases in your communities as you navigate this personal decision. I think most families will regret saying “yes” too soon, so consider “not yet” as more information is gathered. 

Need more info? Here’s my take on day care and COVID-19.