Your smartphone is filthier than a toilet seat, study reveals
Smartphones are devices that accompany us every step of the way, and many of us can't imagine life without them. However, many people are unaware that the screens of these devices are true breeding grounds for bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.
4:21 PM EST, December 9, 2024
In recent years, scientists have conducted numerous studies focused on smartphones and the number of bacteria and viruses present on them. The IFL Science service highlighted the results of one such analysis, whose findings were published in the journal "Scientific Reports".
Smartphone vs. toilet seat - Which is dirtier?
During the research, a team of scientists examined the phones of 26 medical sector employees. The study revealed that these devices contained approximately 11,160 organisms, including 5,714 bacteria, 675 fungi, 93 protists, 228 viruses, and 4,453 bacteriophages. In medical facilities, where contact with dangerous microorganisms is greater, phones can pose an even greater threat. However, the phones of mechanics, businesspeople, or waitstaff also harbor various invisible dangers.
These observations confirm previous research. For example, in 2012, researchers from the University of Arizona found that phones could be more contaminated than toilet seats. Researchers from the University of Michigan point out that we contribute to this situation, for instance, by taking phones to the bathroom. When flushing, pathogens such as E. coli bacteria, hepatitis A virus, streptococci, and Salmonella are released into the atmosphere.
What bacteria are found on smartphones?
According to the IFL Science analysis, the most common bacteria found on phones are the aforementioned E. coli bacteria, staphylococci, actinomycetes, and enterococci. It's worth keeping this in mind, especially considering that, on average, we come into contact with a phone screen 2,617 times a day and more intensive users - even 5,427 times.
To reduce the risk of contact with harmful microorganisms, we should regularly clean our phones using microfiber cloths, electronic cleaning solutions, or antibacterial wipes.
