Investigating the prevalence of bacterial contaminants in public swimming pools within Enugu metropolis

Aneke, Christian Chinedu and Apeh, Gregory Chiadi and Oghotuama, Chiagorom Nnenna and Ezeah, Moses Chukwuemeka and Ejim, Chukwuka Ejim and Aneke, Queen Onyinye (2025) Investigating the prevalence of bacterial contaminants in public swimming pools within Enugu metropolis. GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 31 (1). pp. 312-318. ISSN 2581-3250

Swimming pools are artificial bodies of water created for the purpose of human leisure and sports. However, various pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites, have been detected in swimming pools and similar recreational waters. The aim of this study is to assess the bacterial contamination of public swimming pools in Enugu Metropolis. In this cross-sectional experimental survey, 65 samples were assayed from various swimming pools across Enugu city. Upon culture and bacterial identification, 21 (32.31%) of the swimming pools showed positive bacterial contamination, whereas 44 (67.69%) showed no bacteria growth. The most common bacteria found in the samples were Staphylococci 8 (38.1%), followed by E. coli 6 (6%) and Enterococcus species 5 (23.81%). Pseudomonas and Klebsiella, were found in smaller amounts 1(4.76% each). The antibiogram of the bacteria isolates showed varying levels of susceptibility and resistance to the conventional antibiotics tested against. Gentamycin exhibited the highest sensitivity to the test isolates 10 (11.36%), this was followed by Ceftriaxone 7 (7.95%). Conversely, the least sensitivity was observed among Amoxiclav 1(3.23%), followed by Levofloxacin 2 (6.45%). The public health risk for the transmission of bacterial infections through swimming pools is significantly high as highlighted by the findings of this study. It is recommended that adequate and effective maintenance and regulation of swimming pools be ensured in order to promote and maintain public health and safety.