The coronavirus pandemic has caused many questions when it comes to public areas, including hot tubs and spas. Aside from maintaining social distancing measures and frequent hand washing, is it safe to use public hot tubs? Are there extra precautions that can be taken to reduce the chances of contracting the virus in a shared hot tub? Knowing the potential risks and the recommended safety measures can help hot tub users protect themselves and others from the spread of COVID-19.
Benefits of Hot Tubs
Many people find hot tubs to be calming and therapeutic. Not only do hot tubs offer a great way to relax and destress, it can also provide medical benefits. Hot tubs filled with warm water can help with aches and pains, reduce stress, and improve sleeping patterns. Benefits also include helping with circulation and relaxation of the muscles, decreasing blood pressure, and improving immune system.
Is it Safe to Use Hot Tubs during Covid-19?
The general recommendation is to avoid using shared hot tub or spa facilities, or to take extra precautions when doing so. The warm temperature and moist environment in hot tubs and spas create the ideal conditions for the virus to thrive and disperse into the air. It also increases the chances of water droplets or aerosols to come into contact with another individual’s eyes, mouth or nose. To minimise the risk of infection, it is recommended to shower before and after hot tub use and to avoid contact with common surfaces within the facility. Additionally, wearing a mask, if tolerated, is recommended.
People Also Ask Questions
1. Can I get COVID-19 from a hot tub?
Yes, there is a risk of contracting COVID-19 in hot tubs, as the warm and moist environment makes it easier for the virus to spread. It is important to take extra precautions when using shared hot tubs, such as showering before and after use, avoiding contact with common surfaces, and wearing a mask if tolerated.
2. Can I use chlorine to kill COVID-19?
Chlorine is an effective disinfectant that can help kill COVID-19, however it does not kill the virus immediately, and regular testing and maintenance of the hot tub is required to ensure optimal sanitation.
3. Is it safe to use a hot tub after someone who is infected with COVID-19?
As it can be difficult to know who else has used the hot tub, it is best to avoid using shared hot tub or spa facilities, or to take extra precautions when doing so. This includes showering before and after use, avoiding contact with common surfaces, and wearing a mask if tolerated.
4. Does hot tub use increase my risk of Covid-19?
Yes, hot tub use can increase the risk of catching the virus. Due to the warm and moist environment, it is easier for the virus to spread and contaminate other users. To reduce the risk of infection, it is recommended to shower before and after hot tub use and to avoid contact with common surfaces within the facility. Additionally, wearing a mask, if tolerated, is recommended.
5. Can I catch the coronavirus in a hot tub?
Yes, there is a risk of catching the coronavirus in a shared hot tub or spa. It is important to take extra precautions when using shared hot tubs, such as showering before and after use, avoiding contact with common surfaces, and wearing a mask if tolerated.
Final Words
While hot tubs offer many beneficial health advantages, it is important to take extra precautions when using shared hot tubs and spas during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is recommended to shower before and after hot tub use and to avoid contact with common surfaces within the facility. Regularly sanitise spa equipment and surfaces, and wear a mask, if tolerated. Finally, it is essential to stay up to date with the local public health recommendations and guidelines to help reduce the spread of the virus.