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News

Local Pool Closed as Precaution

The swimming pool at Lodge Hill at Darby’s Corner in Poole has been closed as a precautionary measure. The facility is run by the Borough of Poole’s Leisure Services unit.

The decision to close the pool was taken following advice from Dorset's Health Protection Unit and Environmental Health Officers after two cases of the stomach bug Cryptosporidium.  As the only link found so far between the two people affected was the pool, it was advised that it should be shut as a precautionary measure until the source of the bug is investigated and found.

Sue Bennett, from Dorset Health Protection Unit, said: "Cryptosporidium is a relatively common illness often associated with water.  Although unpleasant, it is rarely serious, with the main symptoms being diarrhoea, stomach cramps and bloating.  It usually takes between seven and 10 days for symptoms to develop. 

“As yet there is no definite link between using the pool and the people who are ill but it is felt that the possible link requires a precautionary approach.  Should anyone be worried that they or a member of their family are suffering from these symptoms following a trip to the pool, they should see their GP as soon as possible.  They should also ensure high standards of personal hygiene at all times at all times as the infection can spread from person to person."

Cllr Don Collier, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for the Environment, Borough of Poole, said: "We are very concerned that there may be a link between the use of the pool and the illness.  We are fully co-operating with the HPU investigation and have closed the swimming pool in line with our safety procedures despite there being no definite link to the situation. 

“We take the health and safety of our users very seriously. Officers from the Borough's Environmental and Consumer Protection Unit are taking samples of the water this week and we will not re-open it until we are confident that there is no risk of illness to our users which is unlikely to be known until late next week."

Rachael Mills, Media Relations Manager, Communications, Borough of Poole tel 01202 633295