Recreational water
Urogenital schistosomiasis
Updated on 18/08/2016
Keywords : Recreational water, Schistosomiasis, Bilharzia
Urogenital schistosomiasis (bilharziasis) is a parasitic disease due to trematode flatworms of the genus Schistosoma. It can be transmitted to humans through simple skin contact with water in bodies of water or waterways (streams, rivers, lakes or ponds) in which freshwater gastropod snails of the genus Bulinus live. When infested, these snails disperse larvae into the water. Following reports of clustered cases of indigenous schistosomiasis in southern Corsica due to Schistosoma haematobium, ANSES has been asked to assess the risk of human contamination by this parasite in continental France so that it can rapidly take action to control any possible risks. To do so, the Agency has conducted an expert assessment of the ecology of the Bulinus snail, and its expert assessment work has led it to recommend acquiring further knowledge on these molluscs in order to provide a comprehensive review of their presence in bodies of water and waterways conducive to their development. This knowledge is essential for establishing a profile of the different water sites likely to provide conditions that could promote S. haematobium transmission. In the meantime, measures should be implemented to prevent water contamination and/or avoid exposure.
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Fish pedicures: a practice requiring regulation
Updated on 04/08/2016
Keywords : Recreational water, Fish pedicure, Water
With the growing popularity in France of “fish pedicures”, a foot-care practice in which fish (Garra rufa) are used to nibble away particles of dead skin, ANSES was requested by the Ministry of Health to assess the risks involved in this kind of procedure. The Agency thus recommends strictly regulating this practice in order to prevent the risk of infection to users and professionals.
Health risks associated with swimming pools for collective use
Updated on 04/08/2016
Keywords : Recreational water, Swimming pools
In France, bathing is the most common water-based recreational activity. The three main types of areas for bathing and related activities are 1) public swimming pools, in which the water is disinfected and provided with disinfectant properties so as to ensure its compliance with microbiologic standards, 2) natural bathing sites which sometimes benefit from specific improvements for the general public, but whose water is not treated and 3) artificial bathing sites. ANSES assesses the potential health risks associated with these three types of bathing areas. Read more about the Agency’s work on swimming pools here.
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