All articles tagged with #health and hygiene
Beards host a dense and diverse microbial population, but with proper daily hygiene and grooming, they pose little health risk and may be healthier than previously thought, contrary to common beliefs that they are inherently unhygienic.
Flushing the toilet releases a plume of aerosolized bacteria and viruses into the air, regardless of whether the lid is up or down. Research shows that the most contaminated areas in the bathroom after flushing include the toilet bowl water, toilet brush, toilet seat, floor surrounding the toilet, and bathroom walls. Regular disinfection of all restroom surfaces, especially after toilet brushing, and the use of a disinfectant with residual microbicidal activity are recommended to minimize the risk of infection, particularly for individuals with compromised immune systems.
Researchers from the University of Arizona and Reckitt Benckiser found that closing the lid on a toilet does not prevent the spread of aerosolised germs, suggesting that regular disinfection of toilets is crucial to reduce contamination and prevent the spread of viruses. Their study, published in the American Journal of Infection Control, tested viral particles in residential and public toilets, concluding that while a closed lid led to elevated contamination levels in certain areas, it did not significantly impact the spread of viral particles. The research emphasizes the importance of using disinfectants and scrub brushes to prevent the spread of viral pathogens in bathrooms.
Research from the University of Arizona and Reckitt Benckiser debunks the belief that flushing the toilet with the lid down prevents the spread of viral particles, finding that it does little to stop pathogens from contaminating surrounding surfaces. The only effective prevention methods were disinfecting the toilet and using a scrub brush. The study showed that closing the lid before flushing led to elevated contamination levels in certain areas, and using a disinfectant during cleaning significantly reduced viral contamination on adjacent surfaces. Regular disinfection of toilets is emphasized to reduce contamination and prevent the spread of viruses.
A study by microbiologist Charles Gerba and his team at the University of Arizona found that whether you flush the toilet with the lid open or closed makes little difference in preventing the spread of viral particles. The study, published in the American Journal of Infection Control, revealed that viral particles spread to the floor and nearby surfaces regardless of the lid position. The only effective way to reduce the spread of germs is to regularly disinfect the toilet, toilet water, and nearby surfaces. Other researchers suggest keeping the lid closed, routine use of disinfectants, hand washing, and avoiding handling personal items in the restroom to minimize exposure to germs.
Experts suggest that while it's important to clean clothes worn in public spaces regularly, wearing them indoors isn't a serious health threat. Washing clothes in hot water or using a dryer can help eliminate germs, but washing hands upon returning home is more effective in preventing illness. With New York City identified as a hot spot for respiratory illnesses, maintaining good hygiene practices is crucial, especially during the cold and flu season.
The author expresses frustration at the increasing number of men observed not washing their hands after using public restrooms, despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of proper hygiene. They emphasize the criticality of handwashing in preventing the spread of illnesses like cold, flu, and COVID-19, and urge individuals to take the extra 30 seconds to wash their hands with warm soap and water. The author highlights the irony of someone wearing an N95 mask but neglecting to wash their hands. They conclude by emphasizing the importance of handwashing for personal and public health.