Investigación de un brote respiratorio agudo por exposición a cloro gas en una piscina pública

Abstract

A case-control study was designed to investigate a chemical accident that occurred in a swimming-pool in the summer of 2005. The aim was to describe the environmental factors involved in the accident, to assess the effect of chlorine gas on the respiratory system, and to perform a clinical and spirometric follow-up. The following interventions were carried out: environmental inspection, epidemiologic survey (including sociodemographic variables), location at the time of the accident, perception of an abnormal smell, and clinical and spirometric outcomes to assess respiratory function. Sixty-five cases and 48 controls were identified and interviewed. The accident was produced by accidental admixture of hydrochloric acid with sodium hypochlorite resulting in chlorine gas release. The main clinical symptoms were dyspnea and cough. The risk of becoming ill was 10-fold higher in children with a previous lung disease and was 4-fold higher when the distance from the chlorine source was less than 40 m. All cases recovered completely, except one who had a history of asthma.

Respiratory Function and Changes in Lung Epithelium Biomarkers after a Short-Training Intervention in Chlorinated vs. Ozone Indoor Pools

“…Moreover, although an exposure of chlorine gas caused by an accident could produce significant decreases in lung volumes [6], [7], in our study we can rule out this possibility as values of chemicals in water and temperature in both swimming pools were evaluated and proved to be among law ranges (Free Chlorine: 0.4–1.5 mg/L; Combined chlorine: <0,6 mg/L, Bromine: 1–3 mg/L; pH: 7–8; water temperature: <28°C; and room temperature: <30°C).…”

“…Within these elements, chloramines and trihalomethane [4], have been identified as irritant products [5]. Recent case studies, have observed that the accidental increase of chlorine values above the established levels for indoor water pools is associated with adverse health effects in swimmers and swimming pool workers (lifeguards and instructors) including throat irritation, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing and decrease in forced expiratory volumes [6], [7]. In fact, chronic exposure to DBPs and chlorine has been associated with eye, throat, skin and nasal irritation [8]–[10].…”