Skin Diseases Spread in Martial Arts

I practice Judo and Brazillian Jiujitsu and have been having a debate with some fellow martial artists over the actual ability of rash-guards to protect one's torso and arms from getting Staph, Ringworm, Impetigo and other germs commonly found in grappling gyms. If you  aren't familiar with rash-guards, they are lycra/spandex shirts that were adopted from surfers by martial artists who practice wrestling and grappling. Anyway, is there any medical support for wearing such garments on the mat or does it not make a difference in picking up a contagious disease like Staph?

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi

The skin conditions you have mentioned like impetigo, fungal infections,folliculitis, herpes simplex type 1 , molluscum and warts may be transmitted through direct contact and repeated exposure to inanimate objects that have been infected with these pathogens. The mode of transmission of these conditions is through direct skin contact and some pathogens may stay in inanimate objects for weeks to months. Thus,there is a risk of acquiring these diseases by wearing these rash guards if they have direct contact with your skin.

Wipe off sweat from the materials and equipments. Avoid sharing any towels, clothes and protective gears. Wear sweatshirts or clothes that cover most parts of your body. Also. take a bath after exercises. Alcoholize equipments as much as possible.