Blood in Pool Water

Germs (e.g., Hepatitis B virus or HIV) found in blood are spread when infected blood or certain body fluids get into the body and bloodstream (e.g., by sharing needles and by sexual contact). CDC is not aware of any of these germs being transmitted to swimmers from a blood spill in a pool.

Q: Does chlorine kill the germs in blood?

A: Yes. These germs do not survive long when diluted into properly chlorinated pool water.

Q: Swimmers want something to be done after a blood spill. Should the pool be closed for a short period of time?

A: There is no public health reason to recommend closing the pool after a blood spill. However, some pool staff choose to do so temporarily to satisfy patrons.