Concerns About Infection After Fish Spa Treatment: What You Need to Know

Infection issues

Dear Doctor: I visited a fish spa in Yilan on September 2nd.
On August 28th and 29th, I had some abrasions on my heels and blisters on my feet that have been repeatedly scabbing and breaking open without fully healing.
There are four wounds of varying sizes, but they are not bleeding; they only sting slightly when submerged in water (I'm not sure if they have completely scabbed over, but the stinging suggests they might not have).
I'm concerned whether soaking my feet in the fish spa could expose me to bloodborne diseases such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or HIV due to these small wounds.
The spa staff mentioned that using adhesive tape would suffice for protection, but it wasn't waterproof.
I am very worried about the possibility of infection through these minor injuries.
I do not have any chronic illnesses.
As of today, September 4th, I have no uncomfortable symptoms or acute signs.
Should I consider getting a blood test to check for any infections? Thank you for your response.

Sachan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/04

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! Based on your description, you have several unhealed wounds on your foot that have been exposed in a fish spa, which raises concerns about bacterial infection, while the risk of bloodborne transmission is relatively low.
I recommend that you visit a general surgeon or an infectious disease specialist to have your wounds evaluated and to receive appropriate wound care or medication treatment.
Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you a speedy recovery!

Reply Date: 2018/09/04

More Info

When it comes to concerns about potential infections after visiting a fish spa, especially with existing wounds, there are several important factors to consider. First and foremost, it is crucial to understand that any open wound, no matter how small, can serve as an entry point for bacteria and other pathogens. In your case, you mentioned having multiple small wounds on your feet that were not fully healed before entering the fish spa. This raises valid concerns about the risk of infection.

Fish spas, where fish nibble on dead skin, can be a relaxing experience, but they also pose certain health risks, particularly if proper hygiene practices are not followed. The water in these spas may not always be adequately sanitized, and the fish themselves can carry bacteria. One of the most concerning bacteria associated with fish and aquatic environments is *Vibrio*, which can cause infections in individuals with open wounds. While the risk of contracting bloodborne pathogens such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, or HIV from a fish spa is relatively low, it is not entirely impossible, especially if the water is contaminated.

Given that you have wounds that are still healing and are experiencing some discomfort when exposed to water, it is advisable to take the following precautions:
1. Monitor Your Wounds: Keep an eye on the wounds for any signs of infection, which may include increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or worsening pain. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

2. Avoid Further Exposure: Until your wounds are completely healed, it would be wise to avoid exposing them to potentially contaminated water, including fish spas. This will help reduce the risk of infection.

3. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Since you have existing wounds and are concerned about infection, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider. They can assess your wounds and determine if any treatment is necessary, including the potential need for antibiotics.

4. Blood Tests: If you are particularly worried about bloodborne infections, discussing the option of blood tests with your healthcare provider may provide peace of mind. However, it is essential to remember that the likelihood of contracting such infections from a fish spa is low, especially if you do not have any symptoms.

5. Hygiene Practices: Ensure that you practice good hygiene by keeping your wounds clean and covered. If you plan to engage in activities that may expose your wounds to water, consider using waterproof bandages.

In summary, while the risk of serious infections from a fish spa is generally low, your specific situation with open wounds necessitates caution. Monitoring your wounds closely and consulting with a healthcare provider will help ensure that you remain healthy and free from infection. If you experience any new symptoms or if your current wounds worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Your health and safety should always be the top priority.

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