Are you bringing multidrug-resistant bacteria found in society back into your home and potentially exposing your kids or loved ones? Yes, according to a recent study published in the Journal of Preventive Medicine and Hygiene. The study group found that your mobile phone is one of many neglected/overlooked places with bacterial growth. A total of 256 mobiles phones were tested; of which 92.9% were contaminated with different types of bacteria – some with the threat of resistance to the therapeutic antibiotics.
These results help to raise awareness about the importance of hand hygiene and cleaning of frequently used devices. This is another reminder of why hand hygiene is considered the most important action for preventing infections and the spread of pathogens.
These findings are in line with another study which found that more than 90% of healthcare workers’ mobile phones were contaminated with microorganisms – also the types that frequently cause hospital-acquired infections.
The results highlight that we need to perform routine decontamination of mobile phones, and other frequently touched devices, to avoid dispersion of bacteria and viruses back into society, especially in order to avoid bringing harmful pathogens from work back home to our family and friends. It also underlines the importance of performing hand hygiene regularly and according to the guidelines.
We, at Sani Nudge recommend that for your mobile phones and devices that you clean using 70 percent isopropyl alcohol wipes or brands that include it, like Clorox Disinfecting Wipes.
We recommended following cleaning tips, like these from Apple Cleaning Tips in order to properly address your hygiene needs:
Advice on how to clean your phone:
1) Use only a soft, lint-free cloth.
2) Unplug all power sources, devices, and cables.
3) Keep liquids away from your device.
4) Don’t allow moisture to get into any openings.
5) Avoid aerosol sprays, bleaches, and abrasives.
6) Avoid spraying cleaners directly onto your device.
If you are curious to know more about infection prevention and how to avoid spread of pathogens, do not hesitate to contact the Sani Nudge team.
