MICROBIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF PUBLIC SWIMMING POOL

The present study revealed a higher degree of saprophytic fungal contamination of swimming pools with potentially pathogenic Acanthamoeba. Therefore, it is essential to pay closer attention to the hygiene and safety of these swimming pools’ water sources. Based on our findings, the dermatophytic contamination of investigated swimming pools was low and physiochemical parameters except from the water temperature were in the standard range. However, saprophytic fungal contamination of the swimming pools was significant which could be due to the lack of the showering before entering the pool and also to the high temperature of the pool water. Acanthamoeba was detected in 16.6% of the swimming pools, confirming the widespread distribution of these free-living amoeba in the environment and the risks associated with the contamination of contact lens wearers and immune compromised patients.