Can you get herpes from a sauna?

Answer 1

Went in a public jacuzzi where it turns out they do not use chlorine (only an infrared cleaning system). Sat without a swimsuit (like the others in there at the time) for 15 minutes. Didn't touch anyone but rocked on the seat (not smooth). Ended up with herpes on my butt. Have been in a committed heterosexual relationship for years but have not had sex in over a month because of my partner's recent surgery. We've both been laid off and consequently home with each other virtually all the time (my partner doesn't even have a car). No other possible exposure to herpes. Now someone tell me you can't get herpes through water.

Answer 2

Herpes cannot survive in the dry heat and high temperature of saunas, but can survive in damp conditions. I have noticed other sauna users use some plastic to sit on like a bubble wrap or plastic bag. So in effect, they are siting in their own mist pool as opposed to others. If you go naked, it's not advisable to have direct contact with the sauna bench. You could sit on a towel, but if the towel is soaking up moisture someone else has created, it may lead to problems. The steam room however is different in that it is a more of a wet environment, and the benchs tend to have a lot more water. Although, it was previously thought that Herpes can be caught from toilet seats, there is no scientific evidence to support this. I hope that helps!

Answer 3

You can't get HIV from sharing a hot tub with someone who is infected. The virus will not survive this environment.