Can you spread staph by swimming?

Answer 1

The answer is definitely yes. I have read three studies that were done since 2004 showing that football team members had spread MRSA through spa and pool water. However, there are ways to make the transmission much less likely. For example , one of the studies concluded that had the team members showered before using the common pools, the infection rate MAY have been reduced. But that is only part of the equation. Other factors include whether the infection is available through an open sore, which makes it much more likely that someone else will become infected. (compared to someone who may have contracted a form of MRSA in the past but no longer has any symptoms or any open wounds/sores through which the virus can be transmitted in the water) Finally, one of the studies showed that it is possible to kill MRSA in pool water with a concentration of at least 2.90 ppm of chlorine. Unfortunately, it is just not realistic to think one can ascertain the chemical levels in any pool other than one's own.

Answer 2

See the related link for information on Swimming Pools and MRSA. I would not recommend going into a pool or hot tub if you have a wound (cut) on your skin.

Answer 3

Yes

Answer 4

no