MCHD encourages safe swimming habits this summer 5-20-26

May 20, 2026

MCHD encourages safe swimming habits this summer; health officials remind families that recreational water is for play, not for drinking

MOBILE, Ala. — As families across Mobile County head to pools, splash pads, beaches, lakes, and other recreational water sites for Memorial Day, the Mobile County Health Department (MCHD) is reminding residents that recreational water is for play, not for drinking. Water that gets into the mouth or nose during swimming or play can carry germs that may cause illness.

MCHD is seeing an increase in bacterial infections linked to recreational water exposure and is encouraging both children and adults to avoid swallowing water while swimming or playing.

“We want families across Mobile County to enjoy a safe and healthy summer in and around the water,” said Dr. Kevin Michaels, Health Officer for the Mobile County. “Pools, splash pads, beaches, and other recreational water areas are great places to cool off, but they are not safe sources of drinking water and swallowing that water can lead to illness.”

MCHD is also urging residents to stay out of recreational water until tattoos, cuts, scrapes, and other wounds are fully healed. Broken skin can make it easier for bacteria to enter the body and increase the risk of infection.

According to CDC guidance, swimming-related illnesses can include diarrhea, skin rashes, swimmer’s ear, eye irritation, and other symptoms linked to contaminated recreational water. CDC also advises people not to swim when sick with diarrhea and recommends healthy swimming habits to help reduce the spread of germs.

MCHD encourages residents to:
• Avoid swallowing pool, splash pad, lake, river, or beach water.
• Teach children to keep water out of their mouths while swimming and playing.
• Stay out of the water if sick with diarrhea.
• Wait until tattoos and wounds are fully healed before swimming.
• Shower before swimming and take regular bathroom breaks for children.

A few simple precautions can help protect children and adults and make summer water activities safer for everyone. For more information about healthy swimming, visit CDC Healthy Swimming. A list of aquatic activities sponsored by the City of Mobile’s Parks and Recreation Department can be found at https://www.cityofmobile.gov/parks-rec/aquatics.