hot tub folliculitis

Germs like warm water. Hot tub folliculitis is a specific rash caused by infection of the hair follicles of the skin with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a particularly nasty bacterium.

It usually begins between 6 hours to 3 days after sitting for a prolonged period in a poorly chlorinated hot tub or whirlpool. There are multiple, widespread pustules which may be seen on the trunk, buttocks, legs, and arms, and in my experience, especially in the areas covered by a tight-fitting Spandex bathing suit. The child may have some mild constitutional symptoms, including low grade fever and malaise. The infection can (rarely) cause serious abscess formation. There is no specific treatment - the pustules usually resolve by themselves within 7 to 10 days.

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