Outbreaks Associated with Untreated Recreational Water — United States, 2000–2014 | MMWR

Outbreaks Associated with Untreated Recreational Water — United States, 2000–2014 | MMWR

• Swimming in rivers, lakes, and oceans was linked to at least 140 outbreaks and 4,958 illnesses during 2000–2014.
• Bacteria, viruses, parasites, and toxins found in untreated water can put swimmers at risk for various illnesses, such as diarrhea, swimmer's itch, poisoning from harmful algal blooms, and infection with brain-eating ameba.
• Swimmers can lower their risk of illness by heeding posted warnings and following other recommendations when swimming in lakes, rivers, or oceans.