Weight Lifting with a Chronic Illness?

Question

Do you think that fitness owners should allow people with Hepatitis C to be able to work out with other people. I am concerned that the fitness center I work part time as a fitness instructor has allowed a weight lifter to work out and he has HEP-C. Any advice or recommendations please!

Why do you say that. Isn't HEP-C a spreadable virus, I'm just concerned thats all.

Thanks Johnny, I'm just learning the ropes thats all.

Thanks Crown. I mean this guy is no drug addict, and he has a great muscular body no doubt, he wipes down everything he touches, I asked the manager and he explained the HEP-C thing to the trainers.

Answer 1

Ok, allot of answers already given, but as a Master Fitness Instructor (IFPA) I'm a little concerned that you are not aware of such things as a Personal Fitness Instructor! First, HEP-C is a virus that affects the liver. Although bad things (drugs, needles, exotic un-protected sex) are often related to HEP-C, people can get it during an accident, surgery, blood transfusion, etc. Second, you should have some respect for this person, because legally they are suppose to let doctor, dentist, hair dressers, fitness and health people know they are infected, and millions do not! Third, the person as you described lifting weights and with a muscular body is most likely a "carrier" meaning somehow he was infected with the virus, but his body's immune system and condition has limited the growth of the virus. Fourth, if the person is wiping off the equipment he or she is using, then you have nothing to worry about. My concern is that the owner of your fitness facility did not brief in depth concerning what to do if this customer gets hurt, and there is an open wound..makes me wonder about some of our fitness center/gym owners and staff. So young man who now knows allot more about the question you asked. I ask that you review the curriculum for your Personal Fitness Instructor Course and there should be a section on injuries/blood/etc. Shame on your boss for not briefing you and other fitness trainers on precautions, etc.

Note: type in Hepatitis C on search and you can read about it.

Answer 2

Everyone who comes in contact with someone who has Hep C is at risk........you can take precautions are washing hands after touching equipment.........but is scary just to know that anywhere I take my children I can be exposing them to this and other illness ........like a cashier could cough and have tb.....I don't know if there is a website but try going thru your health dept and finding out how to protect yourself against it.....and also what precautions they have for people with it.......I have a friend whose husband died from complications with it but she is still fine!

Answer 3

Unless he is having sex in the weight room or bleeding there shouldn't be any exposure potential.
The gym should have an exposure control plan and personal protective equipment to clean up spills of bodily fluids

Answer 4

You are so ignorant and uneducated. You should not be allowed to work with the public, that would make more sense.

Educate yourself on the subject then you will have no need to be concerned.