Spain swimming pools close due to ‘brown challenge’ trend

More than 300 swimming pools across Spain have been forced to close due to a social media trend known as the ‘brown challenge’ (reto marrón). The trend, which originated on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, involves individuals defecating in public pools or releasing feces from bags hidden in swimsuits to record the incident and post it online.

Local authorities and approximately 50 municipalities have issued public alerts to address the growing health crisis. In response, local councils are imposing fines ranging from €1,000 to €5,000 on offenders, and some municipalities, such as Picassent, have escalated cases to the courts. Police surveillance at swimming facilities is also being increased to deter the behavior.

The contamination poses significant health risks, including the transmission of viruses like norovirus, bacteria such as Salmonella, and parasites like Cryptosporidium, which may not be eliminated by standard chlorine levels. Contaminated pools must be closed for 24 to 48 hours for thorough cleaning, filtering, and safety testing. Children are noted as being particularly vulnerable to illnesses caused by swallowing or inhaling the contaminated water.