What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 or Novel Coronavirus is a new strain of the coronavirus. This virus causes severe respiratory illnesses like colds, cough, fever, and pneumonia.

How Does It Spread?

You can get the virus just by touching objects or surfaces with droplets from an infected person’s cough or sneeze; however, you would need to touch your eyes, nose or mouth in order for the virus to get into your body. That’s why proper handwashing is always important.

To know more about proper handwashing visit this CDC’s page: https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/when-how-handwashing.html

Can you get the virus from the swimming pool?

Here’s what experts are saying: the 2019-nCoVhates water! It will die in contact with chlorinated pool water. However, if you are swimming with someone infected with the virus and that person coughs or sneezes near your face, then of course, you are at risk!

Furthermore, touching any pool chairs, tables, equipment and pool toys that have droplets from coughs or sneezes from an infected person will also expose you to the virus. However, once again, if by chance, you touch these items and then you thoroughly wash your hands (for 20 seconds) before touching any part of your face, most likely, you can prevent the virus from getting inside your body, and becoming infected yourself.

What can we do to prevent exposure from the virus?

Limit your exposure by practicing social distancing - avoid crowded places like public swimming pools, parties and large gatherings. Also, avoid touching others; no handshakes or hugs. Moreover, respect your neighbors and always cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing and always wash your hands often with soap and water.

Sources:

• https://web.facebook.com/CNA938/videos/181940363059265/?t=83
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html