Infections Caused by Hot Tubs
What type of skin infections can you get from sitting in a hot tub?
Q: What type of skin infections can you get from sitting in a hot tub? For example, can jock itch (tinea cruris) be spread to others in a hot tub?
A: The warm, moist environment of a hot tub is relaxing but can also be inviting to certain bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Bacteria such as mycobacteria, E. coli, and pseudomonas aeruginosa can live in the slime found on wet surfaces and in pipes. They can all cause infection.
"Hot tub folliculitis" is caused by bacteria, such as pseudomonas, that can live in hot tubs. Infection of the hair follicles results in red, itchy bumps or pustules. These may go away on their own without treatment, or a doctor may need to write a prescription for medicine.
In addition to skin problems, hot tubs can be the source of a lung infection. The bubbling water creates aerosols that could contain bacteria or other germs, which can then be inhaled. Fortunately, lung infections related to hot tube use are rare.
Direct contact with infected people in the hot tub can lead to bacterial infections, fungal infections—including tinea cruris—and herpes virus infections.
Genital herpes, most often caused by HSV-2, is transmitted by sexual contact. HSV-1, which causes the common fever-blisters is usually transmitted by direct skin-to-skin contact. The herpes virus by itself may not survive long in hot tub water. Direct contact with infected skin or genitals in the hot tub, however, can result in infection, just as it can outside the hot tub.
It's important to drain and clean the tub after use and to maintain proper chlorine and pH levels. Pipes and filters should be disinfected. Everyone should shower before entering a hot tub.
If you have a rash or respiratory problems, or suspect you have infection, make an appointment with your doctor.
Rebecca Campen, M.D., J.D. is an Assistant Professor of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School and former Deputy Director of the Harvard/Massachusetts General Hospital Cutaneous Biology Research Center (CBRC). She currently serves as Senior Advisor to the CBRC and divides her time between clinical practice of dermatology at the Massachusetts General Hospital and private practice in Savannah, Georgia. Dr. Campen is the author of two books for medical students and residents, Going Into Medical Practice and Blueprints in Dermatology.
Find More on MSN Health & Fitness:
Copyright © 2009 by the Presidents and Fellows of Harvard College. Used with permission of StayWell. All rights reserved. Harvard Medical School does not approve or endorse any products on the page. Harvard is the sole creator of its editorial content, and advertisers are not allowed to influence the language or images Harvard uses.
i have owned 3 hot tubs, and never have we nor anyone else ever gotten any infections, sick or anything else in the hot tubs.
i use public hot tubs, hot tubs at natural springs, hot tubs at nudist resorts, hot tubs in hotels/motels and never have i or anyone else i know- gotten anything from them.
we do take hot showers both before and after being in one- just like you should when you go into a swimming pool.
It didn't say drain before or after each use.
bugs are not all that bad... live and let live
Undoubtedly, most of those that read my comment will shine me off as a "biased" commenter. Unfortunately, this article is a great example of those that claim to be experts (whether from Harvard or Timbuktu has no relevancy) while authoring an article showing very little knowledge of the "ins and outs" of proper sanitation requirements for Hot Tubs, public or private.
Having over 35+ years as a swimming pool and spa professional, I always go to great lengths to make sure the user is informed on proper sanitation requirements for the pool or spa (hot tub).
Consider this, if you were able to keep your bathroom hot water source running with hot water 24/7 with the door closed to the bathroom - you would undoubtedly begin to grow mold, bacteria and virus spores inside the room. So too, with the Hot Tub. It is vitally necessary to "sanitize the water environment" BEFORE EACH USE.
IT IS NOT NECESSARY TO DRAIN THE SPA BEFORE OR AFTER EACH USE AS THE ARTICLE SUGGESTED. TOTALLY WRONG!
Chlorine and many other approved sanitizers have been readily available and used for decades in the Pool/spa Industry throughout the World. One of the greatest causes of most diseases in the world is the lack of sanitization in our water supply-air supplies-food supplies etc.. Particularly, in third world countries.
Consult your local pool/spa professional for greater info., but, personally, while traveling I carry a bottle of pool/spa test strips w/my toiletries. If I feel like taking a "dip" in the Hotel's pool and spa............ I take 10 seconds to dip the test strip in the pool AND SPA to chk for proper sanitation levels BEFORE I TAKE A DIP. If I find them to be out of range for proper chemical balance, I immediately notify the Head Desk and INSIST they correct it immediately or I STRONGLY SUGGEST THAT I WILL CALL THE BOARD OF HEALTH TO HAVE THE POOL/SPA CHKED BY THEIR AGENCY and have it CLOSED if they (Head Desk person/Mgr.)would rather I do so rather than send a Staff Member immediately to correct it.
I know this sounds rather harsh and brass ........... but never have had a problem when I explained my expertise and my reason for doing so (Namely, to save they're butt from any liability issues caused by they're "unsafe sanitization conditions" in the pool/spa)
Yes, you need to be proactive and not just hope the environment is balanced properly for you and your family to enjoy. If you'd like to learn more and find out how simple it is to do so.......... email me at ...www.sanjuanspas@cs.com
I will tell you how to correct any water related issue while at home or traveling simply and w/out smelling like u just got out of the YMCA pool.
Most Popular on MSN Health & Fitness
MSN Health & Fitness does not provide medical or any other health care advice, diagnosis or treatment.
