It’s hot, and your local river looks enticing. But is too germy for swimming?

  • Written by: Ian A Wright, Associate Professor in Environmental Science, Western Sydney University
It’s hot, and your local river looks enticing. But is too germy for swimming?Dan Himbrechts/AAP

Swimming in rivers, creeks and lakes can be a fun way to cool off in summer. But contamination in natural waterways can pose a risk to human health.

Waterborne pathogens can cause acute gastrointestinal illnesses such as diarrhea and vomiting. Other common illnesses include skin rashes, respiratory problems, and eye and ear...

Read more: It’s hot, and your local river looks enticing. But is too germy for swimming?