Surveillance Data from Swimming Pool Inspections: Selected States and Counties, U. S. , May-September 2002

Swimming increases the potential for the spread of recreational water illnesses (RWIs) (e.g., cryptosporidiosis, giardiasis, and shigellosis). Local health programs inspect public and semipublic pools periodically to determine compliance with health regulations. During inspections, data pertaining to pool water chemistry, filtration and recirculation systems, and mgmt. and operations are collected. This report summarizes pool inspection data from databases at 6 sites across the U.S. collected during May 1-Sept. 1, 2002. The findings underscore the utility of these data for public-health decision making and the need for increased training and vigilance by pool operators to ensure high-quality swimming pool water for use by the public. Tables.