A cell phone can house more bacteria than a toilet lid, being a health risk.
The cell phone accompanies us everywhere and that generates that they are exposed to an invisible impact that we consider little: the accumulation of bacteria and germs on their surfaces.
Recent studies show that a mobile phone can contain more microorganisms than a toilet lid, becoming a possible health risk of its users and those around them.
Do not properly and regularly clean the mobile phone can lead to disease generation, since many go to the bathroom with the device or lend it to their children, who take them to their mouths. A panorama that must be learned to solve.
Bacteria that inhabit the cell phone
Various scientific studies from international universities have confirmed the presence of multiple pathogenic bacteria on mobile phones. Among the most common are:
-Staphylococcus aureus: associated with serious infections such as pneumonia and endocarditis. According to research from the Autonomous University of Zacatecas (UAZ), this bacterium was the most frequently detected in health personnel, with 38.7% of cases.
-Escarichia coli: known for causing gastrointestinal infections. It can be found in up to 1.9% of the phones, according to the same study.
-Klebsiella pneumoniae: linked to respiratory and urinary infections. Although less prevalent, it represents a significant risk in hospital environments.
-Pseudomonas aeruginosa and enterococcus faecalis: antibiotic -resistant bacteria that can cause nosocomial infections, especially in immunosuppressed people.
These bacteria can spread rapidly due to constant contact with the device and, subsequently, with the user’s hands, face and mouth.
A study by the University of Barcelona found that cell phone screens can house up to 600 bacteria, which is equivalent to 30 times more than those found in a toilet lid.
Similarly, research at the University of Arizona suggest that a cell phone can be 10 times dirtier than other everyday objects such as a computer keyboard or the sole of a shoe.
-This level of contamination is worrying, especially since cell phones are not only manipulated continuously, but also take to the face, which facilitates the transfer of microorganisms to the respiratory system and the bloodstream.
What diseases can cause these bacteria
Bacteria present in cell phones can be responsible for diseases that vary from minor infections to serious conditions. Among the possible conditions are:
- Skin infections such as folliculitis and boils.
- Diarrhea and cholera.
- Pneumonia and meningitis.
- Urinary infections.
Especially in people with committed immune systems, such as HIV patients or chronic diseases, these bacteria can represent a significant risk.
How to clean your cell phone
Although it seems a challenge, disinfecting the cell phone can be a simple process if it is done regularly and properly. Next, the steps to clean your device and reduce the accumulation of bacteria:
Before starting, make sure your cell phone is off to avoid damage.
Use a moving to clean small slots, such as cargo ports and speakers.
Mix equal parts of isopropyl alcohol (70%) and distilled water. This combination is effective to remove bacteria without damaging the device.
Slightly moisten the cloth in the solution and pass on the screen and other cell surfaces. Pay special attention to the areas that you play the most.
Use a cotton swab impregnated in the solution to reach corners and inaccessible slots.
Use a dry cloth to remove moisture and wait a few minutes before turning your cell phone again.
Avoid abrasive chemicals such as chlorine or glass cleaners, as they can damage the screen or internal components of the device.
In addition to regular cleaning, there are simple practices that can help keep your cell phone free of bacteria:
- Wash your hands before and after using the device.
- Use protective covers that can be easily cleaned.
- Avoid taking the cell phone to the bathroom, where it is more likely to contact germs.
- Limit cell phone contact with public surfaces, such as tables or desks.
