A traveller is warning tourists to exercise caution when swimming in hotel pools after inadvertently becoming ill during a recent trip to Bali. Joshua Chimupeni, while enjoying the pool at a five-star resort in Seminyak, unknowingly ingested small amounts of water while dunking his head underwater.
Approximately 16 hours later, Chimupeni began to feel unwell, initially attributing his symptoms to something he may have eaten. Having already taken precautions against consuming potentially unsafe food and drink during his travels, he didn’t realize the source of his illness until a doctor examined him in his hotel room.
“I had no idea it could have been the pool,” said Chimupeni, who is from Liverpool, England.
The incident highlights the risk of contracting gastrointestinal illnesses from swimming pool water. While chlorine is effective at killing many germs, some can survive for weeks in treated water. Illness occurs when contaminants, including fecal matter, are swallowed.
Chimupeni experienced simultaneous diarrhoea and vomiting, along with extreme sweating and fluid loss. He received treatment in his hotel room, including an IV drip, antibiotics, and anti-sickness medication.
Fortunately, the illness occurred towards the end of his holiday, and did not significantly disrupt his trip. He expressed his intention to continue enjoying his vacation, despite still feeling weak, and praised the helpfulness of the resort staff, stating he plans to return.
Chimupeni advises travellers visiting Bali to prioritize consuming food from reputable sources, take preventative health measures, and practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused Joshua Chimupeni’s illness?
Joshua Chimupeni’s illness was likely caused by accidentally swallowing small amounts of pool water while swimming at a resort in Bali. The water contained germs that were not fully eliminated by the chlorine treatment.
What were Joshua Chimupeni’s symptoms?
Joshua Chimupeni experienced diarrhoea, vomiting, extreme sweating, and loss of body fluid. He required treatment with an IV drip, antibiotics, and anti-sickness medication.
Is this a common occurrence?
While not necessarily common, contracting a gastrointestinal illness from pool water is possible in any country, not just Bali. Germs can survive in chlorinated water and cause illness if swallowed.
Considering the potential for unseen contaminants in recreational water, what steps do you typically take to protect your health while swimming on vacation?