National task force aims to combat RWIs.(NEWSROOM)(recreational water illnesses)

In response to increasing reports of illness associated with recreational swimming venues, leaders from public health institutions, the aquatics industry, and nongovernmental groups have created the first-ever national task force to reduce and prevent recreational water illnesses.

"The emergence of recreational water illnesses has demanded a public health response and we are pleased to see this unprecedented collaboration to address this growing threat," said Dr. Michael Beach, a senior epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta. "Ingrained in the national psyche is the expectation of a healthy swimming experience. However, people need to keep in mind they share the water with everyone else in the pool who may spread illness, including kids in diapers."

The initiative was born during a two-day workshop in Atlanta in February. Nearly 100 participants divided into four groups to address the following: assessing the problem; increasing public awareness and action; maximizing the impact of environmental health prevention programs; and methods of collecting data. The task force plans to publish a list of recommendations on the best ways to combat RWIs.

The short-term goal, Beach said, is to get the message across to public health officials and pool operators. The long-term ...