The Surprising Health Hazards of Your Phone: Why You Should Stop Using It in the Bathroom
We all know phones are dirty, but did you know they could be a serious health hazard? Primrose Freestone, a Senior Lecturer in Clinical Microbiology at the University of Leicester, reveals the shocking truth about mobile phone hygiene.
In today's world, it's hard to imagine life without a mobile phone. We carry them everywhere, use them for everything, and many of us can't even sleep without them. But while we're aware of the potential dangers of phone use, like distraction while driving or addiction, we often overlook the microbial risks associated with our devices.
A 2019 survey found that most people in the UK use their phones on the toilet, and it's no surprise that studies have shown our mobile phones to be dirtier than toilet seats. This is a major concern, especially given how often we touch our phones and how easily germs can transfer from our hands to the device.
Our phones are in constant contact with our hands, which are known to pick up bacteria and viruses. And since we often eat while using our phones and put them down on various surfaces, our devices can become contaminated with a wide range of pathogens.
The Dangers of Phone Bacteria
Research has identified several types of bacteria that can be found on phones, including:
- E. coli: A diarrhoea-causing bacteria that can be found in human faeces.
- Staphylococcus: A skin-infecting bacteria.
- Actinobacteria: A group of bacteria that can cause tuberculosis and diphtheria.
- Citrobacter: A bacteria that can lead to painful urinary tract infections.
- Enterococcus: A bacteria known to cause meningitis.
- Klebsiella, Micrococcus, Proteus, Pseudomonas, and Streptococcus: All of these bacteria can have nasty effects on humans and are often antibiotic-resistant, making them difficult to treat.
The Problem of Antibiotic Resistance
One of the most concerning aspects of phone bacteria is their resistance to antibiotics. Many pathogens found on phones can't be treated with conventional drugs, which means they can cause serious infections that are difficult to manage.
Even if you try to clean your phone with antibacterial wipes or alcohol, it can still become recolonised by microorganisms. This highlights the need for regular sanitisation to keep your phone clean and safe.
The Role of Phones in the Spread of Infections
Phones are considered reservoirs of infection, and they can play a significant role in the spread of infectious microbes in hospital and healthcare settings, as well as in schools. This is especially true during the COVID-19 pandemic, as the virus can survive for several days on hard plastic surfaces.
How to Keep Your Phone Clean
To protect yourself and others, it's essential to clean your phone regularly. The US Federal Communications Commission recommends daily sanitisation of phones and other devices, especially during the pandemic.
Here are some tips for keeping your phone clean:
- Use alcohol-based wipes or sprays: These should contain at least 70% alcohol to effectively disinfect phone casings and touch screens. Do this daily if possible.
- Avoid direct contact with liquids: Keep sanitisers away from connection points and other openings to prevent damage.
- Don't use bleach or abrasive cleaners: These can damage your phone and are not effective in killing germs.
- Wash your hands thoroughly: After cleaning your phone, make sure to wash your hands with soap and water.
Additional Tips for Phone Hygiene
- Keep your phone in your pocket or bag: When you're not at home, avoid constantly consulting your phone. Use a disposable paper list for to-do items instead.
- Touch your phone with clean hands: Wash your hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitiser before touching your phone.
- Don't share your phone: If you have an infection, don't share your phone with others until it's sanitised. If children play with your phone, sanitise it immediately afterwards.
- Put your phone away when not in use: This helps prevent germs from accumulating. Also, sanitise or wash your hands after using your phone.
- Sanitise your phone charger: Don't forget to clean your phone charger occasionally as well.
By following these simple steps, you can help keep your phone clean and reduce the risk of microbial infections. Remember, your phone is a powerful tool, but it's also a potential health hazard. Take care of it, and take care of yourself!
