Can You Catch Infections from Public Baths? Risks and Precautions

Is the disease contagious?

Hello, today I had to take a shower outside because the pressure valve in my home bathroom broke and there was no plumber available.
I went with my family to a hot spring place.
My left big toe doesn't have any bleeding wounds, but I felt pain in the nail yesterday.
I was hesitant to dig at it too much, so I only trimmed a little bit.
I applied iodine and used medication for paronychia to prevent infection, then covered it with a band-aid.
I didn't immerse my left foot in the hot spring, but I accidentally got it wet while showering with a handheld showerhead.
After showering, I applied hydrogen peroxide and changed the dressing.
Although it didn't hurt when I applied the hydrogen peroxide, I noticed a small amount of bubbles, and I'm not sure if that indicates a wound.
I would like to ask you, as I really dislike showering in public hot springs, if there is a risk of contracting any skin diseases or STDs from a small wound.
The more I think about it, the more anxious I become.
My sister told me I'm overthinking it.
Since I didn't soak my foot and I have it covered with a band-aid, am I safe? Do I need to get checked out? My sister only mentioned that I should be concerned if the pain in the nail persists, in which case I would need to see a dermatologist for paronychia.
Am I worrying too much? I'm particularly concerned about the possibility of contracting an STD.
I hope you can answer my questions.
Thank you.

hua hua, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/27

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, based on the situation you described, the chance of contracting a sexually transmitted infection through a small wound is very low, so you don't need to worry.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2020/12/27

More Info

When it comes to the risk of catching infections from public baths, it's important to understand the nature of the pathogens involved and the modes of transmission for various diseases, particularly sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like HIV, herpes, and others.
Firstly, the likelihood of contracting HIV or other STIs from public baths or shared bathing facilities is extremely low. HIV, for instance, is primarily transmitted through direct blood-to-blood contact, unprotected sexual intercourse, or sharing needles. It does not survive long outside the human body, and it is not transmitted through casual contact or environmental surfaces. Therefore, even if you had a minor injury or a small cut on your toe, the risk of contracting HIV from a public bath is virtually nonexistent, especially if you did not immerse yourself in the water.

Regarding your concerns about skin infections or other diseases, while it is true that some bacteria and fungi can survive in moist environments like public showers or baths, the risk of transmission is still relatively low. Most skin infections, such as athlete's foot or ringworm, are caused by fungi that require direct contact with an infected surface or person. If you were careful not to directly touch the floor or surfaces and maintained good hygiene practices, your risk of contracting such infections is minimized.

You mentioned that you applied iodine and covered any potential wounds with a bandage, which is a good practice. Keeping any cuts or abrasions clean and covered is essential in preventing infections. If you experienced bubbling when applying hydrogen peroxide, it could indicate that the solution is reacting with the tissue, which is normal when it comes into contact with damaged skin. However, if you notice increased pain, redness, swelling, or discharge from the area, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional.

As for your anxiety regarding STIs, it's important to remember that these infections are primarily transmitted through sexual contact. The scenarios you described, such as using a public bath or shower, do not typically facilitate the transmission of STIs. Your sister is correct in suggesting that you may be overthinking the situation. If you are still concerned about your toe or any potential infections, it would be prudent to see a healthcare provider, but your fears regarding STIs from public bathing are largely unfounded.

In summary, while it is always wise to practice good hygiene and be cautious in public bathing environments, the risk of contracting STIs or serious infections from such settings is very low. If you maintain proper hygiene, avoid direct contact with potentially contaminated surfaces, and take care of any minor injuries, you should be safe. If your anxiety continues to affect your daily life, consider speaking with a mental health professional who can help you manage these feelings.

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