I last visited Deep Creek in January 2002. After spending a good portion of a day in the pools, I experienced the itchy rash problem described by Katrina, Wizard and others.

My guess is that the skin rash problem experienced by Deep Creek users is "hot tub folliculitis", also known as "spa pool folliculitis". This possibility was suggested by Rick in Thread #1698 dated 4-18-02. The theory would seem to be supported by DCR's comments that the use of lemon juice helps to alleviate the rash symptoms.

"Hot tub folliculitis" is caused by the presence of the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which thrives in water at temperature between 37C and 40C, or 98.6F to 104F. As one soaks in water inhabited by this bacterium, one's hair follicles open in response to the warm temperatures, allowing the bacteria in. The longer one soaks, the more bacteria come in, and if you soak long enough you allow enough bacteria in to cause a mild skin irritation.

This problem usually occurs in whirlpools and Jacuzzis which are not sufficiently chlorinated. The usual solution is "hyperchlorination" to kill off the existing bacteria, and then subsequent monitoring of the water quality to prevent any recurrences.

There is some evidence in the medical literature that the use of acetic acid compresses immediately after exposure to Pseudomonas aeruginosa reduces the rash outbreak. Acetic acid is commonly found in substances such as lemon juice and vinegar.

Obviously the use of toxics such as chlorine or bleach is out of the question at Deep Creek. How about a diluted vinegar solution as an environmentally friendly and effective alternative? I would suggest that the pools which reach temperatures of 98F-104F at this time of year, which would include the Anniversary Pool, the Womb and the Serenity Pool, be drained occasionally and that their surfaces be thoroughly scrubbed with the diluted vinegar.

Those who soak for hours on end may be well advised to hop out for a few minutes each hour and rub some lemon juice (smells better than vinegar) into their skin.