Guidance on the management of the public health risks from fish pedicures

Because the water used in these treatments holds living fish, conventional methods of decontamination and sterilisation cannot be used. With the recent increase in the number of establishments offering this treatment, a growing number of people – including salon owners, environmental health officers and members of the public – have voiced concerns about the potential for transmission of infection. In some countries, the practice has been banned, although there is little evidence of the potential public health risk in scientific literature on the subject. Due to the number of enquiries received about the safety of this practice, earlier this year the HPA, Health Protection Scotland, and the Health & Safety Laboratory agreed to review the available evidence and produce guidance to minimise any potential risk of infection. On the basis of the evidence identified and the view of experts, the risk of infection from a fish pedicure is likely to be very low. By following the recommendations outlined in the guidance, premises providing fish pedicures and members of the public considering this treatment can ensure that they minimise any potential risk.