Maintaining personal hygiene, even during illness, contributes to overall well-being. Many individuals wonder if showering is advisable or safe when experiencing COVID-19. Understanding personal care guidelines can help manage symptoms and promote comfort. This article explores considerations for showering while managing a COVID-19 infection.
Showering with COVID
It is generally safe to shower when you have COVID-19, provided you feel well enough. Showering offers several benefits, including maintaining personal hygiene and promoting a sense of refreshment during illness. Feeling clean can positively contribute to one’s mental and physical state when recovering.
The warm steam from a shower can also help alleviate some respiratory symptoms. Moist air can loosen mucus and clear nasal passages, providing temporary relief from congestion often associated with the virus. This can make breathing easier and enhance comfort while ill. Regular bathing also helps remove skin bacteria, which is beneficial for overall skin health.
Important Safety Considerations
While showering can be beneficial, certain precautions are important for safety and to prevent discomfort or complications. If experiencing significant weakness, dizziness, or shortness of breath, showering might not be advisable. In such instances, a sponge bath could be a suitable alternative to conserve energy and avoid overexertion.
The water temperature for a shower should be lukewarm, ideally between 85–95°F (29.5–35°C). Extreme temperatures, hot or cold, can place additional stress on the body when compromised by illness. Very hot water might increase feelings of overheating, while cold water could induce shivering, which can further elevate body temperature. To minimize physical strain, keep showers brief, typically lasting 5 to 10 minutes.
Proper ventilation in the bathroom is important. Turning on the exhaust fan or opening a window circulates air and reduces airborne particles. For individuals who feel unsteady or require assistance, using a shower chair enhances safety. Having someone nearby or checking in, especially if living alone, is a sensible precaution. After showering, drying off quickly and dressing promptly can help prevent chills, as illness can affect the body’s temperature regulation.
Cleaning After Your Shower
After a person with COVID-19 has showered, focusing on environmental hygiene in the bathroom can help minimize the risk of transmission to other household members. Cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces are important steps. Surfaces such as faucet handles, doorknobs, light switches, and toilet handles should be cleaned with soap and water, followed by disinfection. EPA-registered disinfectants, diluted bleach solutions, or 70-90% alcohol are effective choices. It is also recommended that the individual use a separate towel and avoid sharing personal hygiene items with others in the household.