# Health expert guidance on hygiene and water safety > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/health-expert-guidance-on-hygiene-and-water-safety > Updated: 2026-08-31T02:15:33.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2. Health experts have issued guidance regarding hygiene practices and water safety. Initial advice focused on showering frequency, noting that daily washing with soap and shampoo may strip the skin of its natural acid mantle and oils, potentially causing dryness, itching, and redness. Experts also noted that while cold water can aid subjective muscle recovery, it may not be optimal for muscle hypertrophy. Subsequent guidance expanded to include warnings about water safety and bacterial risks. The health insurance provider AOK warned that stagnant water in pipes can become a breeding ground for Legionella bacteria, particularly in temperatures between 25 and 45 degrees Celsius. To mitigate the risk of Legionnaires’ disease or Pontiac fever, experts recommend flushing water lines with hot and cold water for several minutes after traveling and advise against lowering household water temperatures to save energy, as higher temperatures help inhibit bacterial growth. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-31: Health experts advise on showering frequency and water safety Health experts advise against daily showering to protect skin health and warn travelers to flush household water pipes after trips to prevent Legionella infections. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/health-experts-advise-on-showering-frequency-and-water-safety ### 2026-08-25: Health experts advise on showering frequency and cold water use Experts advise against daily showering to protect the skin's acid mantle and note that while cold showers aid recovery, they may not support muscle growth goals. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/health-experts-advise-on-showering-frequency-and-cold-water-use --- Cite as: Health expert guidance on hygiene and water safety. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/health-expert-guidance-on-hygiene-and-water-safety