Overview

• Francesca Newton spent 30 minutes in a strong chemical-smelling hot tub at Herons Lake Retreat on March 9 and developed a rash diagnosed as folliculitis within 24 hours.
• Another guest who joined Newton for the dip also experienced a similar underarm rash, suggesting a common source of bacterial irritation.
• Newton says she showered before using the tub as instructed and contacted the lodge three times about her worsening condition without receiving any reply.
• Her GP confirmed folliculitis and prescribed a course of antibiotics, antihistamines and topical cream to relieve intense itching and inflammation.
• Herons Lake Retreat handles thousands of visitors each year and records around 10–15 hot tub complaints annually, attributing nearly all cases to guests not following hygiene guidelines