Miley Cyrus’ Hollywood Walk of Fame Infection Sparks Health Warning

Miley Cyrus’ recent hospitalization for a knee infection after filming a music video on the Hollywood Walk of Fame has sparked a broader conversation about the hidden health risks lurking in everyday public spaces. The 32-year-old pop star shared on Jimmy Kimmel Live that her October 2024 shoot for the Something Beautiful visual album led to a brief but intense stay in the ICU by Thanksgiving. Rolling around on the iconic sidewalk, she said, left her with a 'brutal infection' around her kneecap, prompting doctors to dig into what might have caused such a severe reaction.

Medical experts point out that while rare, urban environments like busy sidewalks can harbor bacteria that pose serious threats, especially when skin is broken or irritated. Dr. Marc Siegel, a clinical professor at NYU Langone Medical Center, explained that common bacteria like strep or staph can trigger infections such as cellulitis, particularly when cuts or scrapes come into contact with contaminated surfaces. Less common but more alarming possibilities, like leptospirosis from rat urine, could also be at play in bustling city settings.

Dr. Ken Perry, an emergency medicine physician, emphasized that the heavy foot traffic on the Hollywood Walk of Fame could easily introduce bacteria from human or animal sources. For Cyrus, whose shoot involved close contact with the ground, this created a perfect storm for infection. Yet, doctors stress that such risks aren’t exclusive to dramatic video shoots—everyday interactions with public surfaces can expose anyone to similar dangers.

The good news? Most of these infections are treatable with common antibiotics, and basic hygiene can go a long way in prevention. Washing cuts immediately with soap and water, covering wounds, and staying vigilant for signs like redness or swelling can keep minor scrapes from turning into major problems. Cyrus’ ordeal serves as a vivid reminder: even the glitz of Hollywood can hide some gritty health hazards.