Bathing with rainwater may trigger skin infection, physicians tell Nigerians

Senior medical experts in Nigeria are cautioning the public against bathing with untreated rainwater, warning it can trigger various skin infections. These include common ailments such as ringworm, athlete's foot, boils, and jock itch.

Physicians explained that repeated use of untreated rainwater for bathing, especially on sensitive or broken skin, exposes individuals to potential fungal and bacterial contamination. They noted that rainwater is not sterile and can accumulate harmful substances like bacteria, fungi, dust, bird droppings, and chemicals as it travels through the atmosphere or sits in unclean containers.

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One concern is fungal infections, because fungi can thrive in contaminated water containing organic debris and other pollutants.

Professor of Medicine and Dermatology, Madubuko Roli, elaborated that as rainwater descends, it encounters dust, road debris, and environmental pollutants. This contact allows it to carry chemicals, bacteria, and fungal spores that can cause infections if the water isn't treated. Roli, a Consultant Physician/Dermatologist at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, highlighted the risk of fungal infections, as fungi thrive in contaminated water. These can manifest as ringworm, athlete's foot, or jock itch depending on the affected body area.

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Untreated rainwater may also encourage the growth of bacteria, increasing the risk of skin infections such as folliculitis and recurrent boils.

Furthermore, untreated rainwater can promote bacterial growth, increasing the risk of infections like folliculitis and recurrent boils. The presence of chemicals and pollutants may also lead to irritant contact dermatitis, causing itching, redness, and skin irritation. Toxicologist and environmental health expert Onaeko Oluwawemimo added that rainwater, particularly runoff from roofs, can be contaminated with heavy metals and pesticides, posing further risks.

To mitigate these dangers, dermatologists strongly advise Nigerians to treat or properly filter harvested rainwater before using it for domestic purposes. Maintaining good hygiene in water storage is also crucial. Treating the water helps reduce the likelihood of fungal and bacterial infections, as well as irritant skin reactions, promoting healthier skin throughout the rainy season, which typically runs from April to October across Nigeria.

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Treating harvested rainwater before use can help reduce the risk of fungal infections, bacterial skin infections, and irritant skin reactions, contributing to healthier skin during the rainy season.