March 10, 2020
The number of confirmed cases of Coronavirus (“Covid-19”) around the world is now increasing in prevalence and we are now starting to see this impact in Ireland.
We are aware that the Department of Health is monitoring this situation and meeting regularly to review large gatherings. At present the advice has not impacted on any aquatic activities, this includes training, competitions locally and nationally. If advice changes in this regard, we will update our clubs and members and would urge you to check our website and social media sites regularly for the most update information.
Additionally we would urge all members to follow the advice that has been provided by the appropriate agencies regarding the best way to minimise the risks to infection as well as what you should do if you feel unwell and are developing symptoms, this can be found in greater detail within the links below.
Some simple controls measures include
- Frequently clean hands by using alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
- When coughing and sneezing cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue – throw tissue away immediately and wash your hands.
- Avoid close contact with anyone who has fever and cough.
Irelands Health Service Executive
Travel Advice
As club may be planning away trips, it is important to review travel guidance relating to specific countries and regions around the world which have been impacted by COVID-19. Information in this regard is available on the Department of Foreign Affairs website . This includes health advice for those returning from those areas.
Chlorinated Swimming Pools
In relation to chlorinated swimming pools and drinking water please see link below for further guidance received from the HPSC/HSE. Extract below:
HSE Chlorinated swimming Pool Guidelines
If drinking water supplies or swimming pools are being chlorinated in accordance with current recommendations / best practice is this sufficient to inactivate COVID-19 virus?
For Drinking Water chlorination, ‘current recommendations’ is taken to mean a Ct value of at least 15 mg.min/litre (for example exposure to 0.5 mg/l free chlorine for at least 30 minutes).1
For Swimming Pool chlorination, operating to ‘current recommendations / best practice’ means maintenance of a free chlorine residual of at least 1.0 mg/l (depending on pool type and disinfectant used).2, 6
Answer:
Yes - adherence to current recommended disinfection practice is sufficient to inactivate COVID-19 virus in chlorinated drinking water and swimming pools.
We will update club and members as more information/advice comes forward from government and as it may affect your activities. If you have any concerns please contact us via email admin@swimireland.ie
