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Who says relaxation sometimes says bathing in a jacuzzi. If this type of bath undeniably has virtues for health, it can also be a place at risk of infections… Indeed, the water of a jacuzzi can quickly be filled with bacteria, viruses and even materials faeces. Explanations.
If you like to be in a Jacuzzi to relax or spend time with your friends on sunny days, read the following carefully.
The jacuzzi, against osteoarthritis and rheumatism
Hot tubs have many health benefits. In case of rheumatism, osteoarthritis or joint inflammation, hot water and bubbles allow you to relax and bask, reducing pain. According to Primrose Freestone, microbiologist at the University of Leicester (United Kingdom), who confides in our colleagues from The Conversation: “The heat from the water naturally widens blood vessels, which helps our muscles relax and relieves aching joints. Besides being physically comforting, a sense of psychological well-being can also be created by the warm water and the company of those who share the bathing experience.“. However, going to a jacuzzi with other people can be a source of other inconveniences.
The jacuzzi also presents a significant risk of infections
Indeed, when you take a whirlpool bath together, bacteria, viruses, sweat and even faeces end up in the water! “Everything on our skin is deposited in the hot water that swirls around us. This includes the roughly 100mg of feces that usually sits between our buttocks. This means that while you are relaxing in the hot water, you risk inhaling or swallowing bacteria, viruses and fungi from the body of your partner who is in the hot tub.” adds the expert, who specifies that “the more people in the hot tub, the higher the levels of feces and sweat poured into the water (and urine if someone has peed in the water). And these bodily deposits can be used by bacteria as direct nutrients“.
Private hot tubs, safer
Generally speaking, private hot tubs are therefore safer than hot tubs found in hotels or gyms. Because as with swimming pools, the water in a jacuzzi bath does not change after each use. On average, it is advisable to do this every three months.
To prevent the development of bacteria during this period of time, filters make it possible to limit the proliferation of micro-organisms and the water must be treated with disinfectants such as chlorine. It is precisely this element that can allow you to know if a jacuzzi (yours or a jacuzzi in an outdoor location) is very contaminated.
Indeed, in the presence of urine and sweat, chlorine releases chloramine, a substance that stings the eyes. And the more germs there are, the stronger the substance will smell, as in municipal swimming pools, by the way. Rather than relying on the clarity of the water, it is better to rely on your sense of smell before entering a jacuzzi.