POPSUGAR: Experts agree that swimming is safe during COVID-19, but you’ll need to take precautions
UC expert says going to a public swimming pool comes with some risk
Carl Fichtenbaum, MD, of the UC College of Medicine Division of Infectious diseases was interviewed for an article in POPSUGAR on whether or not it's safe to go to public swimming pools during COVID -19.
Carl Fichtenbaum, MD, of the UC College of Medicine Division of Infectious Diseases. Photo/Joe Fuqua II/UC Creative + Brand
The good news for those who live in areas where public pools have opened is that the risk isn't the water itself. According to the Centers For Disease Control, there's no evidence that the virus can be spread through pools or hot tubs.
Fichtenbaum says the biggest risk is fellow pool goers and the possible transmission from contact in a public area where people are likely not wearing masks and may not be vigilant about practicing social distancing.
"Individuals with COVID-19 might transmit to others, and social distancing is hard in this setting," Dr. Fichtenbaum told POPSUGAR. "And wearing a mask isn't feasible. So, there may be a risk of transmission of COVID-19 when going to a public pool."
Read the entire article here.
Lead photo/Getty Images/Carina Konig
Impact Lives Here
The University of Cincinnati is leading public urban universities into a new era of innovation and impact. Our faculty, staff and students are saving lives, changing outcomes and bending the future in our city's direction. Next Lives Here.
Stay up on all UC's COVID-19 stories, read more #UCtheGood content, or take a UC virtual visit and begin picturing yourself at an institution that inspires incredible stories.
Related Stories
Make Hoxworth Blood Center’s special holiday events part of your family celebrations this December
December 12, 2025
This December, Hoxworth Blood Center, University of Cincinnati, is inviting families across Greater Cincinnati to add something truly meaningful to their holiday traditions: giving the gift of life. With festive community events, beloved local partners and special thank-you gifts for donors, Hoxworth is making it easier, and more heartwarming than ever, to roll up your sleeves and help save lives close to home.
Ohio nurses weigh in on proposed federal loan rule
December 12, 2025
Spectrum News journalist Javari Burnett spoke with UC Dean Alicia Ribar and UC nursing students Megan Romero and Nevaeh Haskins about proposed new federal student loan rules. Romero and Haskins, both seniors, were filmed in the College of Nursing’s Simulation Lab.
Bearcat Mascot, Cheer Team and scholarships help celebrate Decision Day
December 12, 2025
Cincinnati media organization provided news coverage of Decision Day activities at the University of Cincinnati on Dec. 10, 2025. Surprise announcements of the 2026 Marian Spencer Scholarship recipient occurred during the day.