Tips to maintain clean, safe inflatable pools this hot weather

While inflatable pools bring instant relief from the heat, these also provide fun this dry season but experts advise the public to keep them clean to protect users from possible fungal and bacterial infection.

In Mark Salazar’s report in “24 Oras” on Monday, kids and adults can be seen enjoying the rows of inflatable pools along Fajardo Street in Tondo, Manila.

“Every Easter Sunday, we have this so-called ‘Fajardo Resort’ in our place,” one resident said, adding that it has become a tradition among residents since 2010.

“Amid the challenges we are facing today, this is what gives us fun right now,” another resident said.

To add more resort-like vibes along Fajardo Street, one resident was assigned to grill the barbecue.

However, infectious disease expert Rontgene Solante warned that inflatable pools can be an instrument for spreading skin diseases.

“Let's make sure that those people swimming there don't have any skin infections that might be immersed in the water and could also cause contamination,” he said.

The fungal and bacterial infections that can be spread through pools include Athlete’s Foot, Ringworm, and warts.

Meanwhile, scabies and sore eyes can be spread through close contact with the infected person.

Solante also advised people to avoid accidentally ingesting water from the pool, especially among kids.

“It could be a source of infection…it can cause gastrointestinal infection which may lead to diarrhea or vomitting,” he added.

Using chlorine is advisable in disinfecting pools, but Solante said chlorine should be used properly.

“There are chlorines that are overconcentrated and it may cause irritation. Hence, they should seek advice from sellers on the proper proportion of chlorine to mix with the water in the inflatable pool,” he said.

The medical expert also advised to hydrate yourself before dipping into the pool.

“They thought just because they are wet, they are not dehydrated. Mothers should see to it that their kids must take at least half a glass or full glass of water every hour they are exposed to heat,” said Solante.

Lastly, don’t forget to wear your sunscreen as sunburn may worsen to become first degree burns. — Vince Angelo Ferreras/BAP, GMA News