Amoebic Meningitis Alert
The recent hot weather has prompted the Department of Health to remind people of the increased risk of catching amoebic meningitis when swimming in pools, lakes or dams.
Environmental Health Director Jim Dodds said amoebic meningitis was a rare but potentially fatal disease, which was contracted when recreational water contaminated with the amoeba bug entered the nose.
“Amoeba thrives in warm water temperatures between 28oC and 40oC and people should take extra care in very hot weather,” he said.
“Pool and spa owners are advised to closely monitor and check that chlorine levels are within a safe range and water in wading pools should be changed after each use, as this water provides the perfect environment for the amoeba bug to grow.
Mr Dodds said the risk of amoebic meningitis could be reduced by taking some very simple precautions, such as:
* Staying out of dirty pools, spas, waterholes and dams
* Ensuring pools are kept clean, free of dirt and leaves, and properly chlorinated
* Testing water in swimming pools at least twice a day
* Making sure pools that do not use a stabiliser contain at least two milligrams per litre of chlorine and four milligrams per litre where stabiliser is used
* Making sure pH levels are kept between 7.2 and 7.6
* Keeping wading pools clean and only using the water once.
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