PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 28, 2019: A hotel swimming pool in Palm Springs, California. (Photo by Robert Alexander/Getty Images)
ATLANTA - The summer months are fast approaching and that normally means a time to hit the local swim club and enjoy a day by the pool. However the coronavirus pandemic has many questioning whether it is safe to be around the water for fear of contracting the virus.
The good news, is it is unlikely that you could get COVID-19 from the physical pool water, as long as health standards are being practiced.
There is no evidence that the virus that causes COVID-19 can be spread to people through the water in pools, hot tubs, spas, or water play areas, according to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention.
"Proper operation and maintenance (including disinfection with chlorine and bromine) of these facilities should inactivate the virus in the water," The CDC says.
FULL COVERAGE ON THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC
There is still ongoing community spread of COVID-19. The CDC says individuals, as well as pool owners and operators, take steps to ensure health and safety. They recommend:
- Following local and state guidance that may determine when and how recreational water facilities may operate.
- Individuals should continue to protect themselves and others at recreational water venues both in and out of the water – for example, by practicing social distancing and good hand hygiene.
- In addition to ensuring water safety and quality, owners and operators of community pools, hot tubs, spas, and water play areas should follow the interim guidance for businesses and employers for cleaning and disinfecting their community facilities.
Right now gyms, restaurants, hair salons, and other businesses have been allowed to reopen in Georgia and several other states, but must follow certain guidelines. Social distancing and proper sanitation efforts are being enforced.
SEE ALSO: Q&A: What to expect when visiting newly reopened businesses in Georgia
In the Peach State, nightclubs and bars must continue to remain closed through the end of May.
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Bars, nightclubs to remain closed throughout May
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said bars, nightclubs, and music venues will remain closed in the state through the end of May.
While Georgia's shelter in place order expired on April 30, Gov. Kemp announced he was extending the public health emergency to June 12, 2020.