Toe fungus and mikveh
18 June, 2017
Question:I developed a toe fungus after my last visit. I am not sure if it came from the mikvah or some place else but I have a strong feeling it was from wearing the mikvah slippers they provided.
Over the past few weeks I've been treating it with medications and I don't yet see drastic results but I was told it can take a very long time to get rid of.
I am due for my next mikvah visit tomorrow I would like to know a few things:
Will I contaminate the mikvah by going even though I'm treating it for two weeks now?
Would it be considered assur to go?
I am scared to come in contact with my husband even if it's allowed as I don't want him to catch it. Could the antifungal cream I'm using make me not contagious anymore?
Answer:We are sorry to hear of your catching a fungus. That can happen in any public setting in which facilities are shared barefoot, and can happen even without such an exposure. In light of your concerns, we suggest preparing at home and bringing your own slippers. This will also minimize spread to others.
If you are concerned about your husband catching the fungus, you can wear socks when you are in contact, but more important, do not share socks or slippers with him.
Topical antifungal cream should prevent contagion shortly after application. It is not clear from your description if the fungus is on the skin of the toe or the toenail. If the former, and there is no improvement after a few weeks, then you should return to your physician. If it is in the nail, improvement takes months as it takes time for normal nail to grow. It is also not clear what treatment you are using. In all cases, if the problem does not appear to be improving you should consult with the health care provider with whom you began the treatment.
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