Fish Pedicure Risk

The Health Protection Agency has studied all aspects of fish pedicure therapy.  It says that “the risk of infection is likely to be very low”.  However, it recommends that diabetics or those with compromised immune systems do not have fish pedicures.   The HPA specifically addresses the possibility of transmitting blood-borne viruses such as HIV and Hepatitis.  It says that, in theory, transmission could occur if infected blood from one person got into an open wound on another using the same tank, although, the risk is “extremely low”.  In part, the risk would be minimised due to factors such as the diluting action of the water and the fact that infected blood would be unlikely to stay on the fishes’ mouths.  It recommends that fish pedicures are not recommended for those who have had their legs waxed or shaved in the previous 24 hours.  People with open cuts, wounds, abrasions or broken skin.  Anyone who has a foot infection including athlete’s foot or verruca.  Have psoriasis, eczema or dermatitis affecting feet or lower legs.  Those who are diabetic (which leads to increased risk of infection).  Anyone with a blood-borne virus such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C or HIV.  Those with an immune deficiency due to illness or medication.  People with blood disorders or taking anticoagulant medication.