Many of us start our day by grabbing our smartphones, often using them from the moment we wake up until we go to bed. We use our phones while eating, commuting, and even during toilet breaks. Unsurprisingly, this constant use exposes our devices to a variety of harmful bacteria.
Bacteria Found on Phones
According to a recent study by SellCell, our smartphones are teeming with bacteria commonly found in human and animal fecal matter. Researchers conducted bacterial swabs on the screens of ten randomly selected individuals’ phones. Multiple swabs were taken to ensure accurate sampling. These swabs were then placed in a developing fluid and sent to a bacterial analysis laboratory.
Shocking Results
The study’s findings were alarming. Researchers discovered that 100% of the sampled phone screens contained E. coli and fecal streptococci, both of which are found in human and animal excreta. Additionally, 50% of the screens were contaminated with P. aeruginosa, a bacterium commonly found in cockroach feces. Even more concerning, all the screens had traces of Bacillus cereus, which causes intense food poisoning, and S. aureus, which can cause pneumonia.
The presence of these bacteria on our phones poses several health risks. E. coli contamination can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and urinary tract infections. Although many variants of E. coli are harmless, their presence on our phones indicates a high level of contamination. Faecal streptococci and Enterococci, also found on phone screens, are known to cause various infections. The study highlights that our habit of taking phones into the bathroom significantly contributes to this contamination. When we flush the toilet, bacteria become airborne and settle on our devices. We then carry these bacteria out of the bathroom and into other parts of our homes, potentially spreading diseases.
Keeping Your Phone Clean
While the study’s findings are concerning, it is possible to mitigate these risks with proper hygiene practices. Regularly cleaning and sanitizing our smartphones can help reduce bacterial contamination. Using disinfectant wipes to clean phone screens is a quick and effective way to keep our devices bacteria-free. This practice is especially important for those who frequently use their phones in the bathroom.
The study by SellCell highlights the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices for our smartphones. With bacteria from human and animal fecal matter lurking on our devices, regular cleaning is essential to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and protect our health. By being mindful of where we use our phones and making a habit of cleaning them regularly, we can reduce the risk of bacterial contamination and ensure a healthier environment for ourselves and those around us.
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