Skin Infections Spread by Contact during Sports Participation
It is not uncommon for those participating in sports related activities to acquire skin infections. This usually occurs through direct contact with the infected skin of another participant or contact with fomites (objects) contaminated by someone with an infection. Some of the more common types of infection include:
Bacterial: Both Staphylococcal and Streptococcal skin infections can be spread by skin to skin contact, causing cellulitis and skin abscesses
Viral: Herpes (Herpes Simplex Virus) and warts (verruca vulgaris) can be spread by contact particularly during wrestling
Fungal: Tinea fungal infections spread by contact include ringworm (tinea corporus) and athletes foot (tinea pedis)
Parasitic: Scalp and body lice (Pediculosis) and scabies (Sarcoptes scabiei)
Preventive Measures
There are some simple steps which athletes, young and old, can take to minimize the spread of skin infections during sports participation. Some of the more practical measures include the following:
-Avoid sharing water bottles, towels, athletic equipment,
-Wash hands and shower frequently
-Wear shower shoes in communal showers
-Seek medical treatment for skin infections
-Postpone participation in contact sports until the infection is resolved