I have decided to get my holiday shopping done early this year. I like to give useful and homemade gifts, so I thought about creating H1N1 or Swine Flu Care Kits. My little gift bags will contain baterial wipes, vitamins, cold tea, Advil, tissues, and a little card with the web address to the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention.
As I was reading the CDC site, I came across some interesting information about how adiquately chlorinated pools disinfect afluenza viruses. Here’s what CDC says about the H1N1, pools and chlorine:
- CDC found several chemical germicides, including chlorine, are effective against human influenza viruses. This is if used in proper concentration for a sufficient length of time, so any public or private spas and pools compiling with OSHER standards.
- There has never been a documented case of influenza virus infection associated with water exposure. Recreational water that has been treated at CDC recommended disinfectant levels does not likely pose a risk for transmission of influenza viruses.
- Recent studies have demonstrated that chlorine levels recommended by CDC are adequate to disinfect the flu virus. Although no actual research has been completed H1N1, it has been conducted on other common strands and CDC says the H1N1 virus would also be similarly disinfected by chlorine. (Chlorine levels recommended are 1–3 parts per million [ppm or mg/L] for pools and 2–5 ppm for spas).
- Any influenza virus is destroyed by heat. Specifically 167-212°F [75-100°C]). Warmers the pool or spa, the better. Or steam room.
Of course this doesn’t mean take your sick kid to the pool for healing — or even prevent the H1N1 virus from happening. Just like CDC recommends, stay home for atleast 24-hours if you don’t feel good or suspect you have a virus. It’s just kind of interesting to know the pool is one place where your child can be a little more safe from getting the H1N1 in comparison to other non-chlorinated after school activities!
squidkid. 