Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease & Swimming Pools: What You Need to Know

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common childhood illness caused by a virus. It is spread through contact with an infected person's saliva, mucus, or feces. HFMD can also be spread through contact with contaminated objects or surfaces.

Chlorine is a disinfectant that can kill bacteria and viruses. However, the concentration of chlorine in swimming pools is not high enough to kill the HFMD virus. Therefore, HFMD can still survive in a chlorinated swimming pool.

People who are infected with HFMD should not swim in pools or other bodies of water. This can help prevent the spread of the disease to others.