Developed a rash, looks like chicken pox
Date: 19/02/2009
I have developed a rash (looks a little like chicken pox) after using my hot tub, although other family members do not seem to have it, could it be from the water.
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The first thing you should do is see a Doctor. Rashes can have many causes from a simple reaction to the hot water (dry skin), to a more serious reaction to some chemical that you may be using, or even a bacteria problem.
The most frequent rash that we see is called Folliculitis, or pseudomonas folliculitis which is more commonly known as 'the hot tub rash'
Hot Tub Folliculitis Cause
Hot tub folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles caused by the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This bacteria is commonly found in contaminated whirlpools, hot tubs, water slides, physiotherapy pools, or even loofah sponges. Children tend to get hot tub folliculitis more often, probably because they stay in the water longer. The rash is not spread by personal contact.
Hot Tub Folliculitis Rash
The rash of hot tub folliculitis consists of several small .5 - 3 cm red papules or whealts that do resemble chicken pox. The rash can erupt anywhere on the body that has been in contact with the contaminated water. Areas that are in contact with wet clothing tend to have more lesions. Some people experience fatigue in the first few days of the rash, but fever is uncommon.
Hot Tub Folliculitis Treatment
Most cases of hot tub folliculitis resolve themselves within 7 to 10 days and don't require specific treatment, although some more serious cases will need to be treated with a course of antibiotics. However, we would recommend that your hot tub is thoroughly cleaned and treated (including pipe work and internal equipment) to remove the contamination by using a high dose of chlorine along with a Spa Clean tablet, this will remove the biofilm (slimy substance where bacteria feed, shelter and colonise) allowing the chlorine to kill the bacteria.
Castle Hot Tubs,
