People across the UK are risking a dose of a highly infectious virus with unpleasant symptoms thanks to a common exercise mistake. Hospitals have seen a sharp increase in norovirus cases with close to 1,000 people in hospital with the bug.
Doctors have warned that poor hygiene could spread the virus after research found one in eight Brits wears their sports bras and pants up to six times before washing and many only wash their gym towels every two months.
Dr Hamdan Abdullah Hamed and Dr Sham Singh spoke to Live Football Tickets about the serious risks.
Dr Singh said: “I always highly recommend hot water and the use of disinfectant detergent with antiviral efficacy meeting standards set forth by the EPA, because fabrics utilised in physical activity tend to retain moisture and body fluids, which encourage an ideal breeding environment for pathogenic organisms.
“On a professional note, I would recommend washing workout gear right after use to any gym member. Most of the infections could be avoided because viruses like norovirus and influenza can survive on surfaces for an unimaginable amount of time. More importantly, I emphasise that general hygiene practices like frequent hand washing, the use of alcohol-based sanitisers, and regular cleaning of high-touch surfaces are supported by both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization.”
Dr Hamed, a dermatologist, said: “Other side effects include acne. While many people believe that acne only grows in the face, it can also affect the body. It happens when the hair follicles under the skin are clogged. Bacteria from workout clothes can affect the skin, which can clog the pores, leading to acne. It can become worse when bacteria affects the pores which can prompt inflammation and infection.”
“Athlete’s foot from unwashed sweaty socks can also happen because wet socks and sweat from feet can cause a fungal infection.”
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, which is inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It is sometimes called the “stomach flu,” but it is not related to influenza. Norovirus infections are common and can affect people of all ages.
Symptoms of Norovirus
Symptoms usually appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and can last for 1 to 3 days . The main symptoms include:
- Severe vomiting
- Diarrhoea (often watery)
- Nausea
- Stomach cramps or pain
Other possible symptoms:
- Low-grade fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
Because of the vomiting and diarrhoea, dehydration is a risk, especially for young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.
How is Norovirus Spread?
Norovirus is extremely contagious and spreads through:
- Contaminated food or water – Eating food or drinking liquids handled by an infected person or exposed to contaminated surfaces.
- Direct contact – Touching someone who is infected, such as caring for a sick person.
- Contaminated surfaces – Touching a contaminated object and then touching your mouth.
- Aerosolized particles – Vomit particles can become airborne and infect others nearby.
It only takes a very small amount of virus particles to cause infection, making norovirus outbreaks common in places like cruise ships, nursing homes, schools, and restaurants.
Prevention Tips
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water (hand sanitizer is less effective).
- Disinfect surfaces with bleach-based cleaners.
- Avoid preparing food for others if sick.
- Wash fruits and vegetables before eating.
- Stay home for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop.
To keep your gym wear free from infection, follow these steps:
- Wash your gym towel and any workout clothes separately from your other laundry to prevent cross-contamination.
- The odour-building bacteria will build up on the inside of your workout gear, so washing inside out will give it a more thorough clean.
- Use a detergent that’s specifically formulated to handle tough sweat marks and malodour.
- Ensure your washing machine is clean by regularly disinfecting it to avoid transferring bacteria to your gym wear and avoid fabric softeners.
- Air dry your gym gear and make sure clothes or towels are completely dry before use, as bacteria thrive in damp environments.