germs in the water,” she says. “We have to keep in mind that it’s really important to shower before we go into the water so we leave more chlorine in the water to kill germs.”
While using soap, rinse and repeat is still the safest bet, a 2012 study found that even just a 60-second rinse goes a long way.
Still, keep in mind next time you feel like slacking on your pre-swim shower that “everything that rinses off of our body we share with other swimmers,” says Hlavsa. “In some ways, it’s like getting into a big bathtub together.”
Another thing to look out for in the common pool is a new parasite.
A new report, issued June 2015, documented 90 outbreaks in recreational water venues between 2011 and 2012. The CDC found at least 1,788 cases, 95 hospitalizations, and one death. The cases were tracked in 32 states, as well as Puerto Rico.
A leading cause of the outbreaks is cryptosporidium, otherwise known as “crypto.” The parasite is easily transmittable in pools or at water parks because of its small size and its ability to resist chlorine disinfection, says the CDC.
As you can see showering is very important. So the next time you decide to go swimming, don’t forget to lather, rinse, repeat!