P inequality after Barber Shop visit - Hygiene in barbershops: No signs of an epidemic of skin fungus
While certain regions in Germany are seeing an increase in skin fungus cases following visits to barbershops, there are hardly any such cases in Saxony-Anhalt at present. There are no indications of a regional epidemic, according to Anja Thielitz, chairperson of the State Association of German Dermatologists in Saxony-Anhalt.
There are rather regional hotspots in individual cities like Duisburg, Bochum, or Mainz, where the infection is spreading from an index person. While there may be cases, the issue is not currently being discussed among colleagues, says Dr. Thielitz, who runs her own practice in Haldensleben (Börde district).
Experts suspect a high number of unreported cases
Infection with the fungal organism Trichophyton tonsurans manifests as scaly and inflamed areas. If the fungus enters the skin through a cut, for example from a razor blade or other minor injuries, it can also cause pustules, scarring, and hair loss. There is no mandatory reporting requirement.
Experts therefore assume a high number of unreported cases. An infection with this fungus can be treated effectively. The fungus has been known for decades and was originally transmitted through combat sports, particularly wrestlers on mats, to the scalps of affected individuals. However, infections are now also linked to visits to barbershops.
Hygiene controls not standard
Dr. Thielitz advocates for barbers and hairdressers to disinfect their tools. However, health departments in Saxony-Anhalt have reported repeated shortcomings in some barbershops. The health department in Dessau-Roßlau, for instance, has found that incorrect disinfectants are often used. The owners are informed about the regulations and reminded to comply with the guidelines. In some cases, follow-up inspections have been conducted. Routine inspections are not planned.
The city of Halle states that regular inspections are carried out in establishments for body and beauty care, including barbershops. However, the health department has not received any reports or inquiries about fungal infections.
Despite concerns about skin fungus cases in some German regions following barbershop visits, there haven't been any reported instances in Saxony-Anhalt's barbershops. Despite the use of incorrect disinfectants in some barbershops in Dessau-Roßlau, the city of Halle conducts regular inspections in establishments, including barbershops, but has not received any reports or inquiries about fungal infections.
