Don’t swallow the water: Swimming safety tips

The hot season is here, and many people can hardly wait to go for a dip in the pool and enjoy vacation under the sun with their friends and loved ones.

However, experts warn against bacteria and diseases that may be contracted in public spaces, including public swimming pools.

In an interview with “24 Oras” on Sunday, infectious diseases specialist Dr. Rey Salinel listed the common illnesses you might end up with after a trip to a crowded swimming pool: "Sore eyes [conjunctivitis], ear infection, hadhad [fungal groin infection], buni [ringworm]," he said.

"Kung mainom mo pa ang tubig, maaaring magkaroon ka rin ng gastroenteritis dahil puwedeng may salmonella doon o E. coli. Kung pumasok naman sa ilong mo, deretso sa baga, puwedeng magkaroon ng pneumonia," he added.

To cut the risk of contracting these infections, Salinel advises swimmers to take a shower before and after going into the pool.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also offers tips on "healthy swimming," some of which are listed below:

The Department of Health also warns the public against swimming in Manila Bay due to contaminants found in its waters, including industrial, domestic, and human waste. — Bianca Rose Dabu/BM, GMA News