Nearly everyone enjoys a nice relaxing pool day. Unfortunately, swimming can pose a severe health risk when the pool water is contaminated with swimming pool parasites. If you or a loved one has gotten sick from parasites in a swimming pool, a West Palm Beach personal injury lawyer from Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath can help you collect compensation through a legal claim.
What kind of parasites are found in pools?
Many parasites can survive in swimming pools. Florida’s warm and humid climate allows these organisms to thrive. Parasites commonly found in Florida pools include giardia and cryptosporidium, often called crypto.
Giardia are tiny parasites that cause giardiasis and can be easily removed with proper chlorine levels. On the other hand, Cryptosporidium is resistant to chlorine and can live in pools for up to a week. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a swimmer can be infected with the cryptosporidium parasite by ingesting fewer than ten crypto germs.
What are the symptoms of a swimming pool parasite?
It is essential to be aware of the symptoms of pool parasites. While many symptoms may be short-term, others can be longstanding. Symptoms to look for after swimming in a pool include diarrhea, gas, greasy stools, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, fever, weight loss, and dehydration.
While anyone can be infected with parasites after swimming, individuals with autoimmune diseases, weakened immune systems, and children should be cautious about following healthy swimming guidelines. Some swimming pool parasites can cause severe or even fatal illnesses. If you have become sick from a pool parasite, you may be able to sue the party responsible.
Who may be held responsible for pool parasites?
In Florida, you can sue someone if their negligence caused your injuries. If you have gotten sick from a parasite in a swimming pool, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the responsible party. Depending on the circumstances of your illness, you may be able to sue the following individuals:
- A private pool owner
- A public school
- A government entity
- A homeowners’ association
It is the pool owner’s responsibility to keep their pool clean. For example, all owners should ensure swimmers shower before entering the water. Further, if there are signs of parasites or other bacteria in the water, they should immediately close the pool until it is properly cleaned.
How do you prove your illness came from parasites in a pool?
Under Florida law, you must prove that the party responsible for your illness was negligent. There are four elements that you must show to establish negligence. These elements are:
- That the negligent party owed you a duty of care
- That the party breached that duty
- That their breach caused your illness
- That you have suffered damages as a result of their breach
You may be entitled to damages if you have become ill from parasites after swimming in someone’s pool because of their negligence. In Florida, you generally only have four years from the date your illness began to file a lawsuit for compensation. There are some exceptions to this deadline, so you must consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible regarding your potential claim.
Where should I turn for help after getting sick from pool parasites?
If you or a loved one has gotten sick from swimming pool parasites, you may be able to sue the party responsible. Contact a West Palm Beach personal injury attorney at Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath for a free consultation to determine your eligibility for compensation. Call us at (561) 655-1990 as soon as possible so we can review your claim and discuss your options for recovery.
