Survival of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in 3 different swimming pool environments (chlorinated, saltwater, and biguanide nonchlorinated).

The aim of this study was to examine the viability of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in 3 types of swimming pool environments. This study demonstrates that after 1 hour, all MRSA inoculants were found to be nonviable in chlorinated water, saltwater, and biguanide-treated water. This study indicates that swimming pool water that is properly maintained in both public and private swim centers is not likely to be a vehicle to spread MRSA from swimmer to swimmer.