COVID-19 and Pools - The CDC says that proper operation, maintenance and disinfection of pools and hot tubs should remove or inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19.
Covid-19 Pool And Spa Guidance
Can the virus which causes COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2, formerly known as 2019 novel coronavirus) spread through pools and hot tubs?
“There is no evidence that the virus which causes COVID-19 can be spread through the use of pools and hot tubs. Proper operation, maintenance, and disinfection (e.g. with chlorine or bromine) of pools and hot tubs should inactivate the virus that causes COVID-19.”
Following information provided by CDC and EPA, Pool Essentials recommends pool and hot tub operators should diligently follow proper pool maintenance practices:
- Ensure that your pool or hot tub continuously maintains a free available chlorine residual of 1-4 ppm or for bromine a 2-5 ppm residual, with an EPA registered sanitizer.
Critical Water Testing Parameters
Minimum
Recommended Range
Free Chlorine
1 ppm
1-4 ppm
Total Bromine
2 ppm
2-5 ppm
pH
7.2
7.2 - 7.6
Other Water Balance Parameters
Minimum
Recommended Range
Total Alkalinity
80 ppm
125-150 ppm
Calcium Hardness
175 ppm
175-275ppm
Cyanuric Acid
30 ppm
30-100 ppm
Follow all label directions for proper use. For commercial pools, review local and/or state health codes.
- Operate your pump at least 8-12 hours per day to assure proper circulation and filtration.
- Disinfect surfaces around the pool with an EPA registered disinfectant hard surface cleaner to prevent transmission of the virus through touching of contaminated surfaces.
- Do not swim if you show symptoms of being sick. Follow guidance by CDC, Public Health Officials and/ or Medical Provider.
Reference:
Information on COVID-19 is changing daily. The most reliable source of information is the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html. Additional information regarding proper swimming pool operation can be found at https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/.