These hidden parasites could be lurking in your hotel swimming pool - here's how to check it’s safe

But as inviting as a swimming pool may appear, it could actually be hiding a number of deadly bacteria which could be harmful to your health.

Safe to swim?

Even if a swimming pool abroad looks completely clean, it may still be harbouring some harmful parasites - most commonly Cryptosporidium and Giardia, both of which cannot be seen by the naked eye.

Cryptosporidium can be spread when water has been contaminated and a pool is not properly cleaned.

It is one of the most common causes of stomach infections and can lead to cryptosporidiosis, causing symptoms including diarrhoea, nausea, fever and stomach pain.

Symptoms typically last around five to six weeks, according to the NHS, although this can sometimes be longer if you have a weak immune system.

The infection does not usually require treatment, with individuals simply advised to drink plenty of fluids to re-hydrate.