I swimm in a HOA operated pool within our community. At times the pool has been closed for 24 hrs due to fecal matter. However, recently we were told that the pool was contaminated but did not require closing because the fecal matter was removed immediately and then “shocked” immediately after notification. Should this have resulted in a 24 hr closure? Should duck feces result in pool closure? In one of your FAQs psuedomonas was briefly mentioned. In the past I had a resistant psuedomonas infection – do I need to be more cautious when swimming, if so how? Does choline used in pools have any impact if you have thyroid disease, if so what and what precautions should you use. Thank you for your responses.

Question:

I swimm in a HOA operated pool within our community. At times the pool has been closed for 24 hrs due to fecal matter. However, recently we were told that the pool was contaminated but did not require closing because the fecal matter was removed immediately and then "shocked" immediately after notification. Should this have resulted in a 24 hr closure? Should duck feces result in pool closure? In one of your FAQs psuedomonas was briefly mentioned. In the past I had a resistant psuedomonas infection – do I need to be more cautious when swimming, if so how? Does choline used in pools have any impact if you have thyroid disease, if so what and what precautions should you use. Thank you for your responses.

Answer:

While it is typical for pools to be closed and treated for 24 hours for any fecal contamination, solid fecal contamination that is rapidly removed does pose much less risk than a loose fecal contamination. However, it is still safest to follow typical 24 hour treatment protocol for this type of contamination as well. Concerning duck feces, I have not seen any evidence that the pool should be treated the same way as human feces, especially considering that ducks and people are not likely to be in the pool at the same time. Concerening your other questions about resistant psuedomonas and thyroid, these are questions better left for your doctor. However, to be sure you are swimming in safe, clean water always test the free chlorine and pH level before swimming. This will help to ensure that you are not exposed to unhealthy conditions.

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