How is Hot Tub Rash spread?
Hot Tub Rash is spread by direct skin contact with contaminated water. The rash usually occurs within a few days of swimming in poorly maintained hot tubs or spas but can also be spread by swimming in a contaminated pool or lake. How can I protect myself from Hot Tub Rash? Be aware that hot tubs and spas have warmer water than pools, so chlorine or other disinfectants break down faster. This leaves hot tubs and spas at risk for the spread of recreational water illnesses. Ask your pool manager about the disinfectant and pH testing program at your hot tub or pool. Ensuring frequent testing, control of disinfectant (usually chlorine or bromine) levels, and pH control are likely to prevent the spread of dermatitis. This fact sheet was based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Healthy Swimming Fact Sheet for Swimmers. Visit the CDC’s Healthy Swimming webpages for more information.
