Dangers of MRSA at Gyms in Miami

Gyms in Miami

Most people are unaware of the hidden dangers in gyms in Miami. The use of gym equipment requires close physical contact while sweating. Sweat is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria, especially MRSA (Methicillin resistant staph aureus). MRSA lives in crowded locker rooms and heavily utilized exercise gym equipment. MRSA can spread via shared gym equipment, mats and towels. This deadly infection is linked to more than 18,000 deaths per year in the United States.

Community-acquired strains of MRSA are different from the ones in hospitals. They have the ability to produce a potent tissue toxin that can lead to skin and soft tissue infections, including the flesh-eating forms. Transmission can be passed at gyms through sharing towels and sports equipment. You can also pass on threadworm parasites and infections such as diarrhea through towels.

More than half of us carry the ‘old type’ of Staphylococcus aureus on our skin. These bacteria can gain access though cuts and wounds and certain, fragile areas of the body such as the armpits, buttocks, groin and neck. These infections start as large pimples that swell, becoming painful and producing pus. If the infection spreads to your bloodstream, it can become life threatening.

Another source of infection is dirty pools. Poorly maintained swimming pools in gyms are commonplace. These pools contain bacteria and viruses that can start outbreaks of gastrointestinal illness. Estimates are that 10 percent of pools in gyms contain excess amounts of bacteria. The best method is to shower with soap before swimming and wash your hands after using the toilet or changing a baby’s diaper. If the pool has a strong chemical smell or appears cloudy, don’t use it. The water should be clear and you should be able to see the bottom of the pool.

Don’t lay directly on community fitness mats in gyms. Germ-filled sweat seeps onto fitness mats after each use. After thoroughly wiping down your fitness mat, place a clean towel down before lying on it. It’s best to bring two different colored towels to the gym – one for your clean body and one for wiping down other people’s sweat on shared surfaces. To avoid fungal infections, don’t use a towel that’s been used on your feet or underarms or had contact with the floor. Wash gym towels after every use at 60 F to ensure you kill bacteria on the cloth.

Gyms in Miami exist to improve and enhance our health. Take care not to lose your health at the gym.