Did you know that between 2020 and 2023, three young children died from a brain infection—primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM)—caused by the germ Naegleria fowleri after playing in splash pads?
The water in some splash pads passes only once through the splash pad’s pipes and then drains out (typically into a sewer system). In other splash pads, the water is recirculated, meaning the pipes drain sprayed water into a tank that is typically underground. Then, the water goes through a filter and is disinfected with germ-killing chemicals (chlorine or bromine) before it is sprayed again.
When kids and adults play in splash pads, germs, poop, pee, and dirt can rinse off their bodies and shoes. Sprayed water can also rinse off any debris (such as human or animal poop, dirt, or leaves) from splash pad surfaces.
It can be difficult to keep the water in splash pads adequately disinfected. Spraying water reduces its chlorine or bromine level. Plus, when poop, pee, dirt, and debris get in the water, chlorine or bromine combine with them and break them down, meaning there is even less disinfectant available to kill germs. Swim diapers do not stop germs, poop, or pee from getting in the water.
DO:
Stay out of the water if you are sick with diarrhea.
Shower before getting in the water.
Take kids on bathroom breaks or check diapers every hour.
DON’T:
Don’t swallow the water or let water go up your nose.
Don’t poop or pee in the water.
Don’t sit or stand on the jets. Sitting or standing on jets can rinse poop off your butt.
