Swimming is a great way to exercise, relax and enjoy the water. Just be sure to take precautions if you have a cold or the flu.

Swimming in a public pool can be germ-ridden. It’s not just the water that’s contaminated; it’s also the surfaces in the pool area, such as walls and showers.

When you have a cold or flu, it’s important to avoid exposing others to your germs by not swimming in a public pool or hot tub (unless you’re wearing a nose plug). This is especially true if your symptoms include coughing and sneezing.

If your symptoms don’t include coughing or sneezing, then it’s okay for you to swim in a public pool — but only if you wear a nose plug (the kind used by divers) that covers both nostrils and keeps water from entering your nose.

Last modified: August 3, 2022