Chlorine vs. the Coronavirus

Chlorine vs. the Coronavirus

August 19, 2020

As COVID-19, also known as the novel coronavirus, continues to change so many aspects of the world around us, people still have so many unanswered questions. As various businesses and organizations reopen, there’s a lot of uncertainty about how to go about daily life safely. For example, we’ve received multiple calls and emails about pools and COVID-19 in Pisgah Forest, NC.

How coronavirus spreads

As new information becomes available every day, research indicates that COVID-19 spreads most easily from person to person. Those infected who come in close contact with others (a distance of less than six feet) are most likely to spread the virus.

Respiratory droplets produced by coughing, sneezing and talking also transmit this disease. At this time, scientists believe a person can contract the coronavirus after coming in contact with a contaminated surface and then touching their own mouth, nose or eyes.

What does the CDC say?

When you visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) webpage about healthy swimming during the pandemic, an alert states that there’s no evidence connecting the spread of COVID-19 to recreational water, including pools, hot tubs, water parks, beaches and lakes. Their recommendations for disinfecting pools and hot tubs have not changed since the coronavirus arrived in the United States. However, we cannot go as far as to say that pools with chlorine are 100 percent safe from coronavirus in Pisgah Forest, NC during these uncertain times.

Does chlorine kill COVID-19?

When included in cleaning solutions for surfaces, chlorine effectively kills germs and viruses, such as the coronavirus. Many of the cleaning solutions with chlorine that you have in your home effectively disinfect surfaces exposed to the coronavirus. Of course, make sure not to combine chlorine or bleach-based cleaners with ammonia or vinegar.

Unfortunately, scientists cannot confirm that pools with the appropriate chlorine levels kill off COVID-19, though the CDC believes this chemical should at least “deactivate” the virus. This information does not diminish the hazards of pools and COVID-19 in Pisgah Forest, NC. Yes, disinfectants containing chlorine kill the virus, but pools attract crowds that get in close contact with one another while touching numerous surfaces.

Staying safe while swimming

While protective face masks make breathing harder while swimming, you can take other steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19:

  • Maintain a distance of six feet or more between you and any swimmers who do not live in your home.
  • Wear a mask when you’re hanging out poolside.
  • Avoid touching high-traffic surfaces.
  • Wash your hands regularly.
  • Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, and then sanitize your hands.

Most importantly, you need to maintain your pool’s chemical and pH levels. During this pandemic, everyone wants to find the best way to keep themselves and their loved ones safe. A pool with chlorine and exposure to COVID-19 in Pisgah Forest, NC most likely will not get other people sick.

For commercial pool owners, you need an all-in-one expert that tests water, provides treatment recommendations and adjusts the pH balance. At Royal Water Works, Inc., our clients consider us the local pool experts, providing the highest quality services available. Get in touch with us now to connect with the pool professionals you need.

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