c. Chief of Engineers handles the design, construction, operation, and
maintenance of swimming pools and equipment. The Surgeon General and the Chief of
Engineers must approve any changes from accepted standards.
1-3.
HEALTH PROBLEMS IN SWIMMING AREAS
a. Swimming pools or bathing beaches generally do not present major health
hazards. However, water polluted by the excrement, urine, and discharges of bathers
can cause disease.
b. The three MAIN health problems caused by improperly maintained swimming
areas are intestinal infections, respiratory diseases, and eye-ear-nose-infections.
Fungus diseases and certain helminth (worm) diseases can also result from swimming
areas.
(1) Bacteria and protozoa present in urine and feces cause intestinal
diseases, such as dysentery and typhoid fever. Bacteria are also responsible for
respiratory diseases, such as colds, sinusitis, and infectious sore throat.
(2)
The fungi usually cause superficial conditions of the skin, hair, and nails.
(3) Natural bodies of fresh water can carry the worms (helminths) that cause
a serious parasite disease called schistosomiasis. These parasites enter the body
through the skin or the alimentary tract.
(4) In addition to diseases, poorly operated or hazardous swimming areas
can cause accidents and even death.
1-4.
INSPECTION OF SWIMMING AREAS
a. The post commander relies on the medical authority to inspect swimming
areas and to recommend corrections of unsanitary conditions or practices.
b. The medical authority then may authorize a preventive medicine specialist to
make a sanitary inspection of post swimming areas. In order to conduct a worthwhile
inspection, the preventive medicine specialists must know the local swimming facilities,
any possible health hazards associated with these facilities, and the methods for
operating and maintaining swimming areas.
c. If the inspection indicates that disease or any other hazard to troops exists
at post swimming areas, corrective measures are taken immediately. If necessary the
Commander may have to close the swimming area.
MD0166
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