Back in college I was once invited to
fraternity party that in addition to the usual kegs of beer, promised several mobile hot tubs for added fun. Knowing a
few things about Greek boys, I accepted the free beer cup but steered clear of the tubs. I harbored deep suspicions
about the sorts of bacteria that would likely be swimming about in those murky waters. It turns out I had a nugget of
wisdom. In a recent study by Dr Rita B. Moyes, a microbiologist at Texas A & M University,
nearly all hot tubs house some type of microbial growth.
In 95 per cent of the tested tubs, bacteria derived from feces were present, while 81
per cent had fungi and 34 per cent contained potentially deadly staphylococcus bacteria. According to Dr. Moyes, a teaspoon of normal tap water contains about 138 bacteria and many samples are
bacteria-free. On the other hand, a teaspoon of whirlpool tub water contains an average of more than 2 million
bacteria. The problems arise when the interior pipes of the spas are not properly maintained or chemically cleaned, and
when the jets are operating germs are spewed out into the water. If tubs are routinely cleaned with the correct
combination of chemicals, the likelihood for germ growth diminishes. But if I were to ever again be invited to a
fraternity party, I would still avoid the hot tubs.Note: The contents of this blog are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or substitute for professional care. For medical emergencies, dial 911!
Hot tubs are havens for germs
Back in college I was once invited to
fraternity party that in addition to the usual kegs of beer, promised several mobile hot tubs for added fun. Knowing a
few things about Greek boys, I accepted the free beer cup but steered clear of the tubs. I harbored deep suspicions
about the sorts of bacteria that would likely be swimming about in those murky waters. It turns out I had a nugget of
wisdom. In a recent study by Dr Rita B. Moyes, a microbiologist at Texas A & M University,
nearly all hot tubs house some type of microbial growth.
In 95 per cent of the tested tubs, bacteria derived from feces were present, while 81
per cent had fungi and 34 per cent contained potentially deadly staphylococcus bacteria. According to Dr. Moyes, a teaspoon of normal tap water contains about 138 bacteria and many samples are
bacteria-free. On the other hand, a teaspoon of whirlpool tub water contains an average of more than 2 million
bacteria. The problems arise when the interior pipes of the spas are not properly maintained or chemically cleaned, and
when the jets are operating germs are spewed out into the water. If tubs are routinely cleaned with the correct
combination of chemicals, the likelihood for germ growth diminishes. But if I were to ever again be invited to a
fraternity party, I would still avoid the hot tubs.
1. My name is Dick Wolfe and I represent the Hot Tub Council of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP). I would like to point out that your headline is incorrect as well as other places in the story where you refer to hot tubs. Whirlpools and hot tubs are different and are not interchangeable terms. Dr. Moyes study was conducted only on whirlpools of the type that are "filled and drained after each use, as distinguished from recreational spas and hot tubs."
Hot tubs are filled and maintained similar to swimming pools where the water is left in and kept clean by a proper balance of chemicals. About hot tubs Dr. Moyes stated, "A properly maintained hot tub is both inviting and safe."
Hopefully this bit of informationwill prevent future misunderstandings. We do agree however, that whether it's a hot tub or a whirlpool, jumping in with a bunch of drunken frat boys is a health risk in more ways than one.
cheers
Dick Wolfe
dickw1985@yahoo.com
Posted at 3:30PM on Mar 10th 2006 by Dick Wolfe