Ahvenisto Outdoor Swimming Pool in Hämeenlinna Closed Due to Bacterial Finding
The Ahvenisto outdoor swimming pool in Hämeenlinna has been temporarily closed after routine water testing revealed the presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. The City of Hämeenlinna confirmed the closure in a press release, stating that a small amount of the bacteria was detected in a sample taken on Tuesday, 7 July.
According to the city, laboratory results were received on Wednesday evening, prompting immediate action. Chlorine levels in the pool have been increased to address the issue, and the facility will remain closed until it meets microbiological quality standards. A follow-up sample was collected on Thursday, with results expected by Friday.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is commonly found in soil and water and typically enters swimming pools through swimmers. While the bacteria can cause infections in individuals with weakened immune systems, it generally poses no risk to healthy people. Authorities emphasise the importance of thorough washing before entering the pool to prevent such incidents.
The Ahvenisto outdoor swimming pool, originally built in 1952 for the Helsinki Olympics, was closed to the public in 1985 before undergoing extensive renovations. It reopened in 2014 after work began the previous year (Ilta-Sanomat).
