Verruca Concern

In our gym we train barefoot for two hours at a time. People of every age range train on the same matted areas every week. 

Over the years several people have mentioned in passing that their child has picked up verruca and they are not sure where from. I see where there going and maybe they have a point? Is the gym environment a breading ground to the human papilloma virus (HPV)?

Warts and verrucas are common and most people will have at least on at some point in their life. Worldwide 12 in 100 people have warts or verrucas and the HPV virus is known to cause over 100 different types.

According to Bupa research (www.bupa.co.uk) verrucas can be contagious but the risk of catching them is low due to the conditions that the virus can survive. Verrucas are usually spread from direct skin contact and the virus lives in damp warm places such as Saunas, Showers or swimming pools.

Our gym is cleaned at least twice a week, firstly hoovered and then using a disinfectant and antibacterial spray, the communal areas are mopped and dried before further usage. During children's classes (children are the most susceptible demographic to carry the HPV virus) the matted areas simply don't get damp (Sweaty) enough for contamination to take place. Furthermore I have found no evidence online that the HPV virus can survive in a boxing gym environment especially a gym without a showering area or sauna. 

This said, its important that you conduct personal checks on a regular basis, if you identify a wart or verruca you must take care not to put yourself in a situation where it could be spread to your peers. Most modern treatments encase the verrucas preventing contamination, wearing socks or waterproof plasters is another tried and tested method of prevention. Keeping good personal hygiene is my last advice, wash your feet when you get home from training using a good quality soap, dry well.

The image is only for illustration - I'm not endorsing the product. Information in this blog is from www.bupa.co.uk.