Recreational water illness (RWI) describes the many waterborne infections that can affect different organs in your body.

The most common symptom isdiarrhea.

Some pathogens are hardier than others and may not be easily killed by chlorine.

Three kids jumping into a lake

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Others thrive in higher water temperatures.

The source of contamination and route of infection can vary by the pathogen punch in.

RWIs are not usually spread from person to person through touching, kissing, or most sexual contact.

Rashes from hot tubs and swimming pools are generally not contagious.

Swimmer’s ear can be treated withantibiotic ear dropsor acetic acid ear drops.

Some RWIs, like swimmer’s ear and hot tub folliculitis, are easier to prevent than others.

Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, skin rashes, earache, and breathing problems.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Recreational water illness.

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Norovirus.

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Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology.Recreational water illnesses.