One risk from using a hot tub is the risk of infection from unwanted bugs in the water.

Infectious water-borne agents can be easily introduced in to a spa pool from a variety of sources, including bathers, dirt entering the hot tub and from the water itself.

Bathers using spa pools can be at risk of infections such as E.Coli and folliculitis, and skin and other infections caused by the Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterium.

But it is legionella that poses the most serious risk, as this is the bacterium that causes Legionnaires’ disease, a severe pneumonia like illness which can in some cases prove fatal.

What is Legionnaires’ disease?

Caused by Legionella bacteria, Legionnaires’ disease is a serious lung infection that can in some instances prove to be fatal.

Symptoms initially can include fever, chills and muscle pain.

Once the infection reaches the lungs then chest pains, a bad cough and breathing difficulties can result.