Health authorities close swimming pools in Arequipa due to chlorine levels

The Regional Health Management (Geresa) of Arequipa has ordered the closure of two swimming pools following sanitary inspections that revealed improper chlorine concentrations.

In the Tingo municipal pool, inspectors found insufficient disinfectant levels, which increases the risk of microorganism presence. Conversely, the Santa Clara school pool exhibited a chlorine concentration of 3.24 mg/L, significantly exceeding the sanitary reference maximum of 1.2 mg/L. Officials warned that excessive levels can cause mucosal irritation and gastrointestinal issues.

Authorities noted that facilities must utilize automatic systems to regulate pH and chlorine levels. Some establishments have been granted five to ten days to rectify these issues or face administrative sanctions. Geresa is currently conducting sanitary surveillance across the region, which contains between 80 and 100 municipal, private, and sauna-based pools.