For many people, public bathrooms are a Some concern due to possible disease transmission. However, experts say the risk of contracting serious illness in these facilities is lower than people think and can be prevented by taking simple steps.
According to a 1991 study conducted in gynecological clinics, 85% of respondents avoided touching the toilet bowl and 12% placed paper in it. Only 2% of people dare to sit directly on it.yes It is recommended to take precautions to avoid exposure to bacteria and viruses in public bathrooms.
What types of bacteria and viruses are present in public bathrooms?
Regarding the microorganisms present in these facilities, research shows that public bathrooms contain fewer bacteria than other surfaces.Kitchen sink or your own sink Bathroom sinks tend to contain more pathogens.
exist Certain bacteria and viruses spread through feces And they appear more frequently in public bathrooms. However, it is important to remember that skin is an effective barrier against bacteria, and pathogens are often spread through wounds, mouth, nose or eyes.
The most common illnesses you can contract in public bathrooms include:
E. coli: The bacteria that causes food poisoning is mainly spread through contaminated food, but can also attach to surfaces such as toilet bowls. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps and vomiting.
Norovirus: Half of all food poisonings are caused by this virus. It spreads rapidly through food and person-to-person contact in closed settings such as hospitals, prisons, nursing homes or cruise ships.
Shigella: This bacteria causes shigellosis, which causes diarrhea that is more severe than E. coli and norovirus. Although this is less common, it’s important to keep your bathroom clean to avoid contagion.
Streptococcus: This group of bacteria often lodges in the throat and can cause inflammatory diseases such as tonsillitis, meningitis, and pneumonia. According to one report, 39% of public bathrooms harbor the pathogen.
Staphylococcus aureus: This bacterium is known to be resistant to penicillin and, more recently, methicillin. It can survive in toilets for more than two months and spreads easily through the skin.
To prevent the spread of disease in public bathrooms, proper handwashing is crucial. Research shows that only 67% of people wash their hands regularly. Apart from, It is recommended to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth after touching bathroom surfaces.
In summary, while bacteria and viruses are present in public restrooms, the risk of contracting serious illness is low if proper precautions are taken. How to wash hands properly.