Pseudomonas

Germ Type: Bacteria

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a major cause of infections commonly known as "hot tub rash" (Pseudomonas dermatitis) and "swimmer's ear" (Otitis externa). It is commonly found in water and soil. Hot tub rash can affect people of all ages; symptoms include itchy spots that become a red rash, rash in areas that were covered by a swimsuit, and pus-filled blisters around hair follicles. Hot tub rash usually goes away by itself. Swimmer's ear is more common in children and young adults. Symptoms include itchiness inside the ear, pain when the ear is tugged, and pus draining from the ear.

• Spread via: Contaminated water that comes in contact with skin for a long time (hot tub rash) or stays in contact with the ear (swimmer's ear) via swimming pools, hot tubs, fountains, water play areas, and rivers, lakes, or the ocean.
• Prevention: Hot tub rash — remove your swimsuit and take a shower with soap after getting out of the water; clean your swimsuit. Swimmer's Ear — dry ears after swimming (a few drops of alcohol-based ear drops can help). Avoid putting foreign objects in the ear, and do not swim in areas that have been closed down due to pollution.