The lowdown on Scrumpox and signs athletes should look out for
In his monthly column, Dr Wilhelm von Ludwig tackles Scrumpox, a highly contagious infection that primarily afflicts athletes engaged in contact sports.
Chickenpox typically makes its annual appearance in the springtime, while smallpox, once a devastating scourge, has been successfully eradicated through vaccination.
And who could forget the media frenzy surrounding monkeypox, a relatively recent memory that lingers in our minds? But what about scrumpox? What exactly is scrumpox?
Scrumpox, also known as Herpes gladiatorum, is a highly contagious infection that primarily afflicts athletes engaged in contact sports. This ailment is caused by the herpes virus, the same culprit responsible for fever blisters or cold sores on the lips. However, in the case of scrumpox, it manifests as a blistering rash on the skin of the unfortunate athlete.
The moniker “scrumpox” derives its origins from the world of rugby, specifically the forwards who often fall victim to this infection. The scrum, a key maneuver in rugby, provides the ideal conditions for sustained skin-to-skin contact among players, facilitating the transmission of the virus.
Roughly a week following exposure in a scrum, the affected player typically experiences body aches and occasionally a mild fever. Soon thereafter, the telltale blisters emerge, marking the onset of this condition, akin to a flu-like phase.
While scrumpox ranks as one of the most contagious diseases among contact sports enthusiasts, it is by no means alone in this category. Bacteria and fungi can also give rise to a variety of infectious outbreaks within sports clubs. Here are some essential strategies to prevent these infections:
1. Showering: Astonishingly, only 10% of wrestlers opt to shower immediately after their matches, according to an American study. This simple act is among the most effective measures to curtail the spread of infections like scrumpox and ringworm. Post-practice showers significantly reduce the presence of harmful germs on the body.
2. Screening: Regularly screening players and educating them about potential warning signs can be instrumental in preventing outbreaks within sports clubs. Early identification, coupled with prompt medical consultation, not only leads to early treatment but also mitigates the spread of infections.
3. Siblings and Household: It’s common for individuals residing in the same household to succumb to the same pathogens. Therefore, screening siblings and other family members can be invaluable in preventing further transmission. Additionally, bedding should be promptly laundered upon diagnosis to minimize the risk of contagion.
Clearly, mitigating the risk of these types of infections requires the collective effort of individual players, coaches, and the broader community.
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