Gym-goers urged to take care as MRSA cases rise

Britons have been urged to avoid sharing towels or razors as officials closely monitor an increase in cases of superbug MRSA being contracted in places such as gyms and health clubs.

- AMY-CLARE MARTIN

A total of 175 people were infected outside of hospitals between January and March this year, up 47 per cent from 119 community-onset cases in the same period in 2019.

At the same time, those catching the superbug are getting younger, with almost a quarter of patients recorded as under 45 in 2023-24, compared to just one in 10 in 2007-08.

The UK Health and Security Agency said while it’s too early to conclude whether or not the rise represents a “sustained shift”, they are monitoring infection rates closely to understand the underlying drivers.

In the meantime, community spread can be managed with good general hygiene, including regular handwashing and avoiding sharing items like towels and razors, officials said.

It comes after the US this summer issued a warning over MRSA being spread in gyms and changing rooms.