A new study by the CDC illustrates the importance of practicing good hygiene when we swim in a pool. Michele Hlavsa, chief of the CDC’s Healthy Swimming Program had great advice. “Remember chlorine and other disinfectants don’t kill germs instantly. That’s why it’s important for swimmers to protect themselves by not swallowing the water they swim in and to protect others by keeping feces and germs out of the pool by taking a pre-swim shower and not swimming when ill with diarrhea.”