A study of 2,368 participants in Hungary found swimmers faced higher risks of skin ailments and gastrointestinal issues compared to non-swimmers.
Key facts
- •The study monitored 2,368 people at two river and two lake-like bathing sites in Hungary.
- •Swimmers were more than twice as likely to report skin complaints as non-swimmers.
- •Gastrointestinal illness risk increased significantly for swimmers exposed to higher levels of E. coli and coliphages.
- •All four study sites complied with EU bathing-water standards at the time of the trials.
- •Researchers noted that the study results were based on a single trial day at each location.
A study conducted at four freshwater sites in Hungary has linked wild swimming to an increased risk of skin rashes and stomach illnesses. Researchers found that swimmers were more than twice as likely to develop skin problems as those who remained on the shore, while exposure to higher concentrations of E. coli was significantly associated with a rise in gastrointestinal issues.
By the numbers
Study Methodology and Findings
The research involved 2,368 participants who were randomly assigned to either spend 10 minutes in the water, including facial immersion, or to stay on the shore. One week later, 2.7% of swimmers reported skin complaints such as rashes, ulcers, or itching, compared to 1.3% of non-swimmers. Gastrointestinal illness was reported by 2.1% of swimmers versus 1.9% of non-swimmers.
Debate Over Water Quality Indicators
The findings challenge the World Health Organization’s current guidance, which focuses on enterococci rather than E. coli for monitoring freshwater quality. Lead researcher Paul Hunter noted that while enterococci were not associated with increased risk in the study, E. coli was. The researchers suggest that E. coli should be retained as a standard indicator for freshwater safety, potentially alongside somatic coliphages.
Unidentified Causes for Skin Irritation
While skin irritation was clearly linked to swimming, it did not correlate with markers of faecal contamination. Researchers suggested that other factors, such as avian parasites causing cercarial dermatitis or irritation from algae, might be responsible, though these remain speculative.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by The Guardian Health.
