Can monkeypox virus be spread in swimming pools?
Stating that the monkeypox (mpox) virus is transmitted through skin lesions, body fluids or prolonged exposure to respiratory droplets of an infected person, experts recommend avoiding close contact with symptomatic people.
Considering the main transmission routes of the virus, Assoc. Prof. Kaan Yılancıoğlu stated that the risk of transmission through swimming pools, sea or other water sources is low and expressed that “The chlorine levels used in swimming pools inactivate the virus. However, direct skin contact with someone with lesions during swimming may pose a risk.”
Üsküdar University Graduate School of Addiction and Forensic Sciences Head of Biosecurity Department Assoc. Prof. Kaan Yılancıoğlu informed about the risk of transmission of monkeypox virus in areas such as pools, baths and spas.
Can monkeypox virus spread in the pool?
Reminding that the monkeypox (mpox) virus is transmitted mainly through skin lesions of an infected person, body fluids or prolonged exposure to respiratory droplets, Assoc. Prof. Kaan Yılancıoğlu stated that “Considering the main transmission routes of the virus, the risk of transmission through swimming pools, the sea or other water sources is quite low. However, direct skin contact with someone with lesions while swimming may pose a risk.”
Pointing out that there is no evidence that the monkeypox virus survives in disinfected environments such as chlorinated water, Assoc. Prof. Kaan Yılancıoğlu stated that “The chlorine levels used in swimming pools inactivate the virus. Therefore, properly maintained pools are generally safe.”
People with symptoms should not enter swimming areas
Stating that there is no specific data on other water sources such as baths or spas, Assoc. Prof. Kaan Yılancıoğlu expressed that “In general, properly maintained water sources are considered to have a low risk for the spread of the virus.”
Adding that in terms of hygiene, it is important to properly disinfect the water in swimming pools and clean the surfaces regularly, Assoc. Prof. Kaan Yılancıoğlu pointed out that it is critical for people with symptoms not to enter public swimming areas to prevent transmission.
Hands should be washed after contact with shared items
Reminding that authorities recommend avoiding close contact with people who show symptoms of monkeypox, Assoc. Prof. Kaan Yılancıoğlu said that “Measures such as ensuring personal hygiene, washing hands after contact with surfaces or shared items can reduce the risk of spreading the virus. In terms of public health, it is recommended that people with symptoms be isolated and stay away from the community during the contagious period of the disease. In summary, it is important to pay attention to hygiene rules and avoid direct contact with infected people although the risk of monkeypox virus spreading through water is low.”
Üsküdar News Agency (ÜNA)