Infection concerns due to fish pedicures quashed by HPA

Concerns that fish pedicures may lead to the spread of infection have today been quashed by the Health Protection Agency (HPA).

The fashion for Garra rufa fish pedicures led to worries about the potential for the spread of infection from fish to person or water to person during the nibbling process.

In fact, the HPA say that there is the potential for the transmission of a range of infections, but that the risk is ‘very low’ as long as standards of hygiene are kept.

A fish spa working group led by the HPA and consulting with local authorities and environmental health practitioners concluded that risks were only posed to people with an underlying medical condition such as diabetes and psoriasis and those with a weakened immune system.

Both these vulnerable groups of people should avoid the pedicures and fish spa operators should not promote the treatment to them.

Consultant epidemiologist at the HPA, Dr Hilary Kirkbride said: “Provided that good standards of hygiene are followed by salons, members of the public are unlikely to get an infection from a fish spa pedicure, however the risk will be higher for certain people.

“This is why we feel it’s important for salons to ensure the client has no underlying health conditions that could put them at risk, and that a thorough foot examination is performed, to make sure there are no cuts, grazes or existing skin conditions that could spread infection.

“Anyone considering a fish pedicure can help reduce the risk of infection – both to themselves and others – by taking simple precautions. Allowing any cuts or infections you may have on your feet or legs to heal before having the treatment, and waiting at least 24 hours after having a leg wax or shaving, will minimise your chances of catching anything. If you do experience any ill effects after the treatment, you should visit your GP.”