Local researcher says swimming in rivers and lakes is linked to stomach bugs and skin problems
New study raises public concern over water quality
People who swim in rivers and lakes are more likely to experience skin issues and stomach bugs, according to recent findings from the University of East Anglia.
The study revealed that swimmers were twice as likely to suffer from skin complaints, while higher levels of bacteria associated with faecal pollution increased the risk of gastrointestinal illnesses.
These findings are significant in light of the growing interest in open-water swimming and increasing public concern about water quality.
The research was conducted through a randomised controlled trial involving 2,368 volunteers.
Participants were assigned either to swim for 10 minutes, with at least three full head immersions, or to stay onshore without entering the water.
Prof Paul Hunter, who led the analysis, observed a rise in skin ailments including rashes and itching among swimmers.
Hunter stated, “We also found that the risk of gastrointestinal illness increased as levels of E. coli and other viruses that infect bacteria found in the human gut rose in the water, which is indicative of faecal pollution.”
Despite all study sites meeting European bathing water standards, researchers noted a correlation between increased microbial contamination and sickness.
Skin problems were reported among swimmers even when faecal indicators were not present.
Hunter indicated that organisms naturally found in the water could be responsible, mentioning cercarial dermatitis, or ‘swimmer’s itch’, caused by parasites from waterfowl.
“Agricultural or industrial contaminants may also play a role,” he added
However, Prof Paul Hunter doesn't want swimmers to be put off:
"I wouldn't want to discourage people from going swimming because there are a lot of health benefits from swimming and recreational benefits, both mental and physical
the issue is trying to make sure that when people do go swimming, that they have an understanding of what the risks may be."
He hopes that this research might help influence future decisions, and play a role in the future of swimming safety:
"The goal for me would be to actually look at a website and say 'oh yeah that lake looks fine to swim in today, or nah, the risks too high! If we can get there, ill be happy."