Taking a dip in a pool, ocean or lake is refreshing in the heat of summer, but be cautious - they can also be breeding grounds for many water related illnesses. It’s not uncommon to contract conditions like skin rashes, gastrointestinal issues, and What’s Going Around this week, Swimming Pool Conjunctivitis (a.k.a. Pink Eye).

You may think that pink eye is most often a problem when kids are in school, but Centra Care docs see just as many cases of conjunctivitis during the summer months. The reason? Chemical irritants like chlorine in swimming pools, and infection from cteria or virus in oceans and lakes, or poorly chlorinated pools.

The statistics below show the increase in incidences of swimming pool pink eye at Centra Care centers since last week:

Clermont & Winter Garden Village – up 600%
Sand Lake & Waterford Lakes – up 300%
Oviedo – up 275%
Altamonte Springs & Kissimmee – up over 200%

LEARN MORE:

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the lining of the eye. While many cases of pink eye are the result of bacteria and virus, not all pink eye is the result of infection. Noninfectious pink eye can come from exposure to irritants like chlorine in pools or from allergies. Infectious pink eye is caused from certain bacteria and viruses that are highly contagious and can be spread in contaminated water.

Avoiding Pool Pink Eye:

Whether the pool is in your community, at a hotel, or in your friend’s backyard, it’s difficult to know the water quality. To avoid getting pink eye, wear eye protection, like swim goggles. This will also limit exposure to irritants from an over chlorinated pool.
Don’t overlook plastic or inflatable kiddie pools.

Don’t let the water sit overnight. Be sure to change the water daily.

Before stepping foot in oceans or lakes, be aware if there are any postings/warnings from local officials on the quality of the water.

If you suspect you have pink eye, wash your hands often, don’t touch your eyes, don't go swimming, and see a doctor. If bacteria caused the pink eye, prescription eye drops may be needed to heal the infection.

If you need to see a doctor, Centra Care’s No Wait, Online Reservations allows you to secure a time at any of our locations that fits with your schedule. Now if you are sick or injured, you can schedule to see a doctor during your lunch break, after work, on the weekend, or whenever is convenient for you. For more information visit: www.CentraCare.org

Sincerely,



Florida Hospital Centra Care
407-200-CARE (2273)
To learn more about "What's Going Around" in our community you can listen to the Centra Care Senior Medical Director each Tuesday morning between 8am and 8:30am on 88.3FM radio - Z88.3