Swimming In Polluted Water: What Are The Risks?

Swimming in polluted water can be detrimental to your health. Polluted water is contaminated with chemicals, waste, plastic, and other harmful microorganisms and pathogens. These pathogens can cause a range of illnesses, from gastroenteritis to more serious diseases like cholera and hepatitis. While swimming-related illnesses are usually not very serious, vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with weak immune systems are more likely to develop severe illnesses. To avoid swimming in polluted water, it is recommended to check local council or state department websites for water quality information and to avoid swimming after heavy rainfall or near known sources of pollution.

Illnesses caused by polluted water

Swimming in polluted water can expose you to harmful microorganisms and pathogens, which can lead to various illnesses and infections. These pathogens can enter the body if you swallow the water, or even if it comes into contact with your skin or eyes. Those with open wounds should be especially cautious, as polluted water can cause infections in rare cases.

The most common illness associated with swimming in polluted water is gastroenteritis, which can cause nausea, vomiting, stomachaches, diarrhoea, headaches, and fever. Other minor illnesses include ear, eye, nose, and throat infections. In highly polluted water, swimmers may be exposed to more severe diseases, such as cholera, dysentery, cryptosporidiosis, and giardiasis.

Polluted water may also contain cyanobacteria, which can form algal blooms and produce toxins that lead to hay fever-like symptoms, skin rashes, sore throat, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and even kidney or liver damage. These toxins can also be harmful to pets if they drink or swim in the contaminated water.

Water pollution can come from various sources, including untreated sewage, stormwater runoff, chemical cleaners, oils, plastics, farm waste, and fertilizer runoff. Heavy rainfall and flooding can increase the risk of water contamination by sweeping these pollutants into waterways. It is important to check for water quality advisories or closures before swimming and to avoid swimming in water after heavy rainfall.

Sources of water pollution

Water pollution is a major issue that can have detrimental effects on human health, the environment, and the economy. It is caused by various sources, including both human activities and natural factors. Here are some of the main sources of water pollution:

Sewage and Wastewater Treatment

The main point source of water pollution is sewage and wastewater treatment plants. When these systems become overwhelmed or malfunction, they can release untreated wastewater containing pollutants such as pathogens, phosphorus, nitrogen, heavy metals, and toxic chemicals into waterways.

Agricultural Activities

Agriculture is a significant contributor to water pollution, especially in the United States. Fertilizers, pesticides, and animal waste from farms wash into waterways during rainfall, leading to nutrient pollution (including nitrates and phosphates) and the spread of bacteria and viruses. This pollution can cause excessive growth of algae, known as algal blooms, which can be toxic to both people and wildlife.

Industrial Waste

Industries such as factories, refineries, and power plants release pollutants into water sources. This includes toxic chemicals, heavy metals such as arsenic and mercury, and oil and gasoline from vehicles and machinery. These substances can contaminate groundwater, surface water, and marine environments, posing risks to human health and ecosystems.

Oil Spills

Oil spills, often associated with accidents involving boats, tankers, and pipelines, can have severe consequences for marine ecosystems and human health. Oil, or liquid petroleum hydrocarbon, can spread across rivers, bays, creeks, and oceans, causing long-lasting damage.

Radioactive Waste

Radioactive waste from uranium mining, nuclear power plants, and military weapons production can persist in the environment for thousands of years. Improper disposal or accidental release of radioactive materials can contaminate groundwater, surface water, and marine resources, posing significant threats to human health and the environment.

Stormwater Runoff

During heavy rainfall, stormwater runoff can carry pollutants from the land into coastal waters, rivers, and estuaries. This includes pollutants from urban areas, such as trash and animal waste, and pollutants from industrial and agricultural sources. It is recommended to avoid swimming in coastal waters after heavy rain and to stay away from stormwater drains, as they can discharge harmful microorganisms and pathogens.

How to check water quality

Swimming in polluted water can have detrimental effects on your health. The most common illness related to poor water quality is gastroenteritis, which can cause nausea, vomiting, stomachache, diarrhoea, headache or fever. Other minor illnesses associated with swimming in polluted water include ear, eye, nose and throat infections. In highly polluted water, swimmers may also be exposed to more serious diseases, such as kidney or liver damage.

To avoid these health risks, it is important to check the water quality before swimming. Here are some ways to do so:

• Check your local council or state department website for information on water quality. They may also provide regular updates on social media channels.
• Follow the 48-hour rule: Avoid swimming for at least 48 hours after heavy rain or snowmelt. This is because heavy rainfall can cause stormwater runoff, which can contaminate bodies of water with pollutants and microorganisms.
• Check for signs at the beach or advisories from official government agencies. Beaches may be closed or advisories may be posted due to the presence of harmful bacteria, viruses, protozoa, or parasites in the water.
• Check the pH of the water, as it can be an early indicator of changes in water quality.
• Take water samples from the swimming area, especially the entry points. You can use a water testing kit to test for the presence of bacteria and other pollutants.
• Consult local organisations that provide information on water quality, such as The Rivers Trust in the UK, which offers an interactive map showing the locations of sewage outflows.
• Refer to guidelines published by relevant authorities, such as the US Environmental Protection Agency, which provides information on national water quality.
• Be aware of the unique qualities of the water in your area. Understand where your water comes from, how wastewater is treated, and where stormwater flows.

Health risks of swimming in polluted water

Swimming in polluted water can have several adverse effects on one's health. Pollutants can enter bodies of water through various means, such as runoff from farms, factories, and sewage systems, as well as oil spills and plastic waste. These pollutants contaminate the water with harmful microorganisms and pathogens, which can cause a range of health issues for swimmers.

One of the most common illnesses associated with swimming in polluted water is gastroenteritis, characterised by nausea, vomiting, stomachache, diarrhoea, headache, and fever. In addition, bacterial exposure can lead to salmonellosis and cholera, while viruses in the water can cause respiratory infections and hepatitis. Protozoans, another type of pathogen, can cause dysentery, cryptosporidiosis, and giardiasis. In rare cases, swimmers may even contract deadly infections such as MRSA, V. Vulnificus, and Leptospira.

The risk of contracting illnesses from polluted water is higher for certain vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. For these groups, even minor illnesses associated with swimming, such as ear, eye, nose, and throat infections, can become more severe. Additionally, open wounds exposed to polluted water can increase the risk of developing infections.

To reduce the risk of health issues, it is recommended to avoid swimming in coastal waters for at least a day after heavy rainfall, and in rivers and estuaries for three days, as rainwater can sweep pollutants like chemicals, wildlife excrement, and manure into the water. It is also advised to avoid swimming near stormwater drains, sewer discharges, and industrial pipe discharges, as these areas are more likely to be contaminated with harmful pathogens. Checking local council or state department websites, or organisations like New South Wales Beach Watch, can provide information on water quality and help swimmers make informed decisions about their chosen swimming spots.

How to prevent water contamination

Swimming in polluted water can have detrimental effects on your health. It can expose you to harmful microorganisms and pathogens, leading to illnesses such as gastroenteritis, with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, stomach ache, diarrhoea, headache, or fever. In highly polluted water, swimmers may also be exposed to more serious diseases, including kidney or liver damage.

To prevent water contamination and protect yourself and others from these health risks, here are some measures you can take:

• Reduce Plastic Consumption: Single-use plastics are a significant source of water pollution. Reduce your plastic consumption by opting for reusable alternatives whenever possible. Properly dispose of or recycle any plastic waste to prevent it from ending up in waterways.
• Properly Dispose of Hazardous Waste: Many household products contain hazardous chemicals that can contaminate water if not disposed of properly. Read labels carefully and follow local guidelines for disposing of items such as chemical cleaners, oils, and other non-biodegradable materials.
• Maintain Your Vehicle: Keep your car well-maintained to prevent leaks of oil, antifreeze, or coolant, which can contaminate water sources if not properly contained.
• Landscape Mindfully: If you have a yard or outdoor space, consider landscaping techniques that reduce runoff and minimize the use of pesticides and herbicides. Excess nutrients from these substances can contribute to water pollution and harm local ecosystems.
• Practice Safe Pesticide Use: When using pesticides, carefully read the labels and follow instructions to prevent spills and groundwater contamination. Mix and load pesticides on an impervious surface, such as a concrete pad, to contain spills. Use closed systems for mixing and transferring pesticides to reduce the risk of spills and groundwater contamination.
• Support Local Initiatives: Get involved with local organizations or initiatives that aim to protect water sources. Volunteer with watershed or wellhead protection groups, or start one in your community if none exist.
• Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the unique water sources and potential contamination sources in your area. Educate your neighbours and community about the impact of human activities on water quality and simple ways to prevent contamination.
• Avoid Swimming in Polluted Waters: Stay informed about the water quality of your local swimming areas. Check local council or state department websites, or follow their social media channels, for regular updates on water quality. Avoid swimming in coastal areas for at least a day after heavy rain and wait three days before swimming in rivers or estuaries.

Frequently asked questions