Take precautions to avoid water-borne illnesses

HOUSTON - By following a few basic precautions, you can prevent water-borne illnesses, said Dr. Gordon Schutze, professor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine.

The most common water-borne illness is gastroenteritis, which can cause diarrhea. Skin infections and respiratory illnesses can also occur.

Follow these pool hygiene tips:

-Shower, using soap and water, before swimming. Wash the perianal area thoroughly.

-Check and change diapers frequently.

-Wash hands with soap and water after toilet use and diaper-changing activities.

-Infants and children who are not toilet trained should use proper fitting swim diapers.

-Wash hands with soap and water before and after consumption of food and drink.

Children in diapers should not be allowed to sit down on splash pads. These have a water reservoir underneath that recycles water, so if a child has diarrhea, it can come back through the water spray to potentially contaminate others.

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Health briefs from the Baylor College of Medicine