Rugby players who share towels, razors or ice baths risk passing on serious skin infections, according to Public Health England (PHE) experts. An investigation at a Midlands rugby club found that the PVL-MSSA bug, a strain of Staphylococcus aureus, had spread between players, causing boils, abscesses and carbuncles.
The study, conducted between August 2013 and February 2014, examined a cluster of suspected infections and screened about 60 club members. Four cases were identified, with tests revealing an identical strain of bacteria responsible for all four infections, indicating transmission between players.
Questionnaires completed by players showed that 20% regularly shared towels, 10% admitted to sharing razors, and 5% shared clothing, despite nearly a third reporting skin conditions in the previous year. Some players also shared cold baths after games.
Dr Deepti Kumar of PHE said: 'The investigation identified a number of high-risk practices among the players which increase their chances of getting an infection, such as sharing towels and razors, and sharing ice baths with their fellow team members.' She urged sportspeople to practise good hygiene and avoid sharing personal items.
In severe cases, the infection can become life-threatening and cause skin and tissue death. PHE data shows there are between 1,200 and 1,500 cases of PVL-MSSA nationally each year, with wrestlers and others in close-contact sports also at risk. Treatment involves antibiotics, surgical drainage, and hospital care for serious cases.
