 You think you know all about germs. You know that they are sources of contamination that lurk around dirty places. You are also familiar with routine hygiene practices that are supposed to keep them at bay. Because you adhere to these, you think you are protected against them. But are you really?
The fact is, germs are not restricted to ‘dirty’ places. In fact, they are everywhere. What’s worse, they thrive in many places where you would least expect to find them. When you come into contact with them they can infect you, especially if your immune system is vulnerable. Find out which places carry the most risk and how you can protect yourself:
Health and fitness centers
Ironically, places where you go to get healthy could also make you sick. Gymnasiums, spas, swimming pools, and yoga studios are hotbeds of microbial activity. There are good reasons for this.
Firstly, these places enjoy a high turnover of patrons. As they exercise, they also perspire. And they leave sweat, teeming with germs, on equipment, seats, mats, walls, floors, shower rooms, and everywhere they touch.
Secondly, germs actually love the warm and damp conditions in establishments such as gyms and spas. The result is that they multiply rapidly, freely contaminating all the patrons who frequent these joints. In fact, recent incidences of infection by MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), a bacteria resistant to many common antibiotics, has been linked to skin contact in gyms.
The solution: Instead of avoiding the gym, take these simple steps:
- Use a disinfectant to wipe equipment before using it.
- If possible, use a towel to avoid direct contact with equipment.
- Wherever possible, carry your own gear such yoga mats.
- Wash hands thoroughly or better still take a bath after every exercise session.
- Handle gym clothes with care and wash after every workout.
Get rid of body odor
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