Sharing raincoats risks skin infections, doctor warns

Dr. Rituja Ugalmugle, consultant in internal medicine at Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central, warned that sharing raincoats can lead to fungal skin infections and rashes.

The inner lining of raincoats traps sweat, moisture, and oils, creating a breeding ground for harmful fungi and bacteria, especially if the raincoat is not properly dried or cleaned.

Healthy individuals are at low risk, but those with sensitive skin may experience allergic reactions, itching, or irritation from wearing damp, unclean shared raincoats.

Commuter settings like shared bike-taxis, delivery outlets, and workplaces commonly have raincoats that are used by many people without proper drying, increasing contamination risk.

The main risk is not from sharing itself but from moisture, as germs settle in raincoats that stay damp for too long.