Latest news with #immunologist
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
How clean is a public pool? Expert reveals what is really lurking beneath the surface
On hot summer days, few things are more refreshing than a dip in the pool. But have you ever wondered if the pool is as clean as that crystal blue water appears? As an immunologist and infectious disease specialist, I study how germs spread in public spaces and how to prevent the spread. I even teach a course called 'The Infections of Leisure' where we explore the risks tied to recreational activities and discuss precautions, while also taking care not to turn students into germophobes. Swimming, especially in public pools and water parks, comes with its own unique set of risks — from minor skin irritations to gastrointestinal infections. But swimming also has a plethora of physical, social and mental health benefits. With some knowledge and a little vigilance, you can enjoy the water without worrying about what might be lurking beneath the surface. The reality of pool germs Summer news headlines and social media posts often spotlight the 'ick-factor' of communal swimming spaces. These concerns do have some merit. The good news is that chlorine, which is widely used in pools, is effective at killing many pathogens. The not-so-good news is that chlorine does not work instantly – and it doesn't kill everything. Every summer, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issues alerts about swimming-related outbreaks of illness caused by exposure to germs in public pools and water parks. A 2023 CDC report tracked over 200 pool-associated outbreaks from 2015 to 2019 across the U.S., affecting more than 3,600 people. These outbreaks included skin infections, respiratory issues, ear infections and gastrointestinal distress. Many of the outcomes from such infections are mild, but some can be serious. Germs and disinfectants Even in a pool that's properly treated with chlorine, some pathogens can linger for minutes to days. One of the most common culprits is Cryptosporidium, a microscopic germ that causes watery diarrhoea. This single-celled parasite has a tough outer shell that allows it to survive in chlorine-treated water for up to 10 days. It spreads when faecal matter — often from someone with diarrhoea — enters the water and is swallowed by another swimmer. Even a tiny amount, invisible to the eye, can infect dozens of people. Another common germ is Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium that causes hot tub rash and swimmer's ear. Viruses like norovirus and adenovirus can also linger in pool water and cause illness. Swimmers introduce a range of bodily residues to the water, including sweat, urine, oils and skin cells. These substances, especially sweat and urine, interact with chlorine to form chemical byproducts called chloramines that may pose health risks. These byproducts are responsible for that strong chlorine smell. A clean pool should actually lack a strong chlorine odour, as well as any other smells, of course. It is a common myth that a strong chlorine smell is a good sign of a clean pool. In fact, it may actually be a red flag that means the opposite – that the water is contaminated and should perhaps be avoided. How to play it safe at a public pool Most pool-related risks can be reduced with simple precautions by both the pool staff and swimmers. And while most pool-related illnesses won't kill you, no one wants to spend their vacation or a week of beautiful summer days in the bathroom. These 10 tips can help you avoid germs at the pool: Shower before swimming. Rinsing off for at least one minute removes most dirt and oils on the body that reduce chlorine's effectiveness. Avoid the pool if you're sick, especially if you have diarrhoea or an open wound. Germs can spread quickly in water. Try to keep water out of your mouth to minimise the risk of ingesting germs. Don't swim if you have diarrhoea to help prevent the spread of germs. If diagnosed with cryptosporidiosis, often called 'crypto,' wait two weeks after diarrhoea stops before returning to the pool. Take frequent bathroom breaks. For children and adults alike, regular bathroom breaks help prevent accidents in the pool. Check diapers hourly and change them away from the pool to prevent faecal contamination. Dry your ears thoroughly after swimming to help prevent swimmer's ear. Don't swim with an open wound – or at least make sure it's completely covered with a waterproof bandage to protect both you and others. Shower after swimming to remove germs from your skin. Lisa Cuchara is a Professor of Biomedical Sciences at Quinnipiac University. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Yahoo
11-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Scientists make concerning discoveries while studying mice guts: 'Took a turn for the worse'
Microplastics have infiltrated our bodies, including our brains and blood, and now one new study asserts that they could be wreaking havoc on our guts. The research, summarized on Science Alert, found that the smallest type of microplastics, nanoplastics, led to changes in protein production, gene activity, bacteria levels, and the microRNA coding inside cells when fed to mice. "Overall, the integrity and health of the guts of the mice took a turn for the worse," Science Alert wrote. For instance, the beneficial bacteria Lactobacillus decreased while a potentially harmful one, Ruminococcaceae, increased. And two proteins that normally seal and protect the gut became less abundant. "Given the current limitations in nanoplastic detection technologies and the uncertainties associated with extrapolating animal model results to humans, continued research is critical to accurately evaluate the potential long-term health effects of nanoplastics in humans," immunologist Yueh-Hsia Luo, who wasn't involved in the study, told the site. We already know that microplastics are accumulating inside our bodies. One study, for example, found them in all 23 semen samples examined. Another piece of research discovered that we can absorb microplastics directly into our brains as we breathe. Meanwhile, this new study adds to a body of research investigating the effects of microplastic exposure. For instance, one study on pigs suggested that these tiny plastic pieces can affect the functioning of the nervous system connected to digestion. Another paper found a link between microplastics and chronic kidney disease in mice. Although we are already exposed to microplastics through our air, water, soil, and food, we can help limit the number of new ones entering the environment by reducing our plastic use. You can help by reducing your dependence on plastic. For instance, invest in a reusable water bottle and shopping bag, and bring your own to-go containers when you dine out. Meanwhile, one group of researchers has found a way to remove microplastics from farm soil using a type of processed farm waste, and scientists are also working on ways to remove them from our water. Do you worry about the quality of the air inside your home? Yes — often Yes — but only sometimes Only when it's bad outside No — I never do Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
RNZ News
10-07-2025
- Health
- RNZ News
Immunologist gives evidence at Covid inquiry
health politics 30 minutes ago An immunologist giving evidence at the inquiry into the government's Covid-19 response, has been questioned on claims the debate around mRNA vaccines was shut down during the pandemic. Reporter Lucy Xia has more.
RNZ News
16-05-2025
- Health
- RNZ News
The age-old question: cracking the code of waning immunity
Photo: Robert Cross Immunologist Dr Michelle Linterman is a Program leader at the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research. Along with her team, work is being done to understand how our immune system changes across our lifespan, why vaccines can be less effective in older age, and what can be done to change that.
The Guardian
07-05-2025
- Health
- The Guardian
Measles cases hit six-year high in South Korea amid outbreaks across south-east Asia
South Korea has recorded the highest number of measles cases in six years, adding to concerns that low vaccination rates combined with international travel are contributing to further outbreaks elsewhere in the region. The country has confirmed 52 cases so far this year, exceeding the 49 recorded for the whole of 2024, the Korean Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) said this week. It is the highest figure since 2019, when 194 cases were recorded. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognised South Korea as 'measles free' in 2014, but overseas travel and an ageing population are thought to have contributed to the rise in cases. South Korea is not alone in having outbreaks of measles, which experts consider the most infectious communicable disease. Alarm is growing over outbreaks in the US – centred on Texas – and in Thailand and Vietnam. The US is enduring the largest measles outbreak in a quarter of a century, with one leading immunologist warning: 'We're living in a post-herd immunity world.' The Vietnamese health ministry said officials had identified about 40,000 suspected measles cases and five deaths already this year, prompting calls to speed up vaccination of children. Vietnam confirmed 6,725 cases and 13 deaths in 2024 – with most deaths occurring among children and older people with underlying health conditions, according to media reports. According to figures reported to the WHO by member states, Thailand had 7,507 cases in 2024, compared with just 38 in 2023. The outbreak in South Korea has been attributed to unvaccinated travellers from overseas. Of the 52 cases reported by the KDCA this week, 34 involved people from overseas – mostly from Vietnam – the Yonhap news agency said. 'The global increase in measles is likely to result in more imported cases,' a KDCA official told Yonhap. 'The risk of rapid outbreaks remains low because of our stable vaccination rates and monitoring system.' A two-dose measles vaccination in childhood is about 99% effective in stopping someone from getting measles, according to infectious diseases experts. The WHO said in a press release in March: 'The latest data indicates that the measles outbreak in Vietnam is still very much ongoing, and we are seeing continued surges in cases in central and northern Vietnam – including new outbreaks in parts of the country that have not reported cases or clusters of cases before. It added: 'Due to the highly contagious nature of measles and the significant immunity gaps, many un- or under-vaccinated children are exposed to infection.' The outbreaks in the US and south-east Asia have sparked concern that Australia too could become 'fertile ground' for the disease. Measles can cause severe complications in vulnerable children and adults including pneumonia, encephalitis and death, according to a factsheet on the website of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
