Swimming Precautions

In general the only fresh water which can be considered safe is that found in adequately chlorinated pools. In tropical regions, other bodies of fresh water (lakes, watercourses, canals, etc.) may be contaminated with infectious agents that can cause disease not only by ingestion but also by direct invasion of the skin and therefore they should be avoided. Swimming in the sea does not in principle pose any risk of communicable disease, however travelers are advised to ascertain from local sources whether bathing is permitted and poses no health hazard