Beware! Second hand clothes pose health risks

Mexico City: Wearing second hand clothes can expose people to health hazards.

"Such clothes can be infested with mites and lice, and can contain some kind of chemical and even bacteria," EFE quoted the Mesican healthcare agency as saying.

Many poor and working-class Mexicans buy clothes from street vendors whose stock consists largely of used garments imported in bulk from the US.

It is best to avoid buying second hand clothes, said Diana Castillo Martinez, a dermatologist.

For those who do buy used garments, she advised washing them thoroughly and said shoes should be left out in the sun for several days before wearing.

Under no circumstances, according to Castillo, should consumers purchase underwear from any informal outlet.

Without proper cleaning, second hand undergarments can spread gonorrhea, "a chronic illness that is difficult to diagnose".