use socks when trying on shoes

Deutsche Presse Agentur
Published: Sunday September 3, 2006

Hanover, Germany­ To avoid foot fungus, which is easily transferred from person to person, socks or other foot covers should always be used when trying on shoes. Anyone trying on shoes barefoot runs the risk of sharing fungi and other contaminants with anyone else who has tried on those shoes, according to the Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) health insurance fund of Germany, where 10 million people suffer from the problem.

Swimming pools, saunas and hotels also carry high risks for infection. One should always wear sandals in such places for protection. Foot showers rarely provide enough protection since they contain low dosages of disinfecting agents.

In general, it is best to wear shoes and socks that allow the feet to breathe. In addition, socks should, of course, be changed daily.

© 2006 DPA - Deutsche Presse-Agenteur