All articles tagged with #germs
Experts warn that hotel elevator buttons are among the germiest surfaces in a hotel, capable of carrying viruses like flu and COVID for hours to days; targeted cleaning of high-touch areas and diligent hand hygiene can reduce infection risk for travelers.
Emergency medicine physician Dr. Anita Patel says there are two plane nonnegotiables: wipe down the tray tables and surrounding wipeable surfaces before you sit, since germs and bacteria can linger on trays for hours or even days, and apply sunscreen before takeoff because UV exposure is stronger at cruising altitude; she also notes the importance of seat belts and other small safety measures, emphasizing practical steps over perfection to protect you and your family while traveling.
Young children are the most common carriers of respiratory viruses in households and schools, often spreading illnesses like colds, coronaviruses, and flu due to developing immune systems and habits like sharing toys. Preventative measures such as handwashing, surface disinfection, masks, ventilation, and vaccinations can help reduce transmission, especially during peak respiratory virus season.
Wearing shoes inside the house can introduce harmful germs, toxins, and allergens, cause messes, damage flooring, and may be culturally inappropriate, while going shoeless can be more comfortable and healthier for your home environment.
A study finds that young children in pre-kindergarten and elementary school harbor the most respiratory viruses, with over 92% of these kids testing positive for at least one virus, highlighting their role in spreading illnesses like colds and COVID-19 during the fall season.
Wearing shoes inside can transfer germs and dirt to your floors, but cleaning shoes with soap and disinfectant, and following proper washing instructions, can reduce the risk of spreading harmful microorganisms in your home.
While shoes can carry germs like bacteria and dirt into the home, the risk of causing illness from these pathogens is low, and routine shoe sanitization is generally unnecessary. Experts suggest cleaning shoes if concerned about dirt or germs, but emphasize that hand contact with contaminated surfaces poses a greater health risk.
Microbiologists advise proper kitchen cleaning practices to prevent germs and foodborne illnesses, emphasizing correct water temperature, regular sink and sponge sanitation, careful handling of cutting boards, and maintaining appliances like dishwashers to ensure a safe and hygienic cooking environment.
This article provides microbiologist-approved tips to avoid common kitchen cleaning mistakes, emphasizing proper water temperature, sink and sponge hygiene, cleaning fridge and touchpoints, maintaining dishwasher, and proper use of cutting boards to prevent foodborne illnesses and maintain a hygienic cooking environment.
New research indicates that bacterial biofilms within arterial plaques may contribute to heart attacks by releasing bacteria that trigger immune responses and inflammation, potentially opening new avenues for prevention and treatment such as antibiotics or vaccines.
Hotel lobbies contain many contaminated surfaces like elevator buttons and check-in counters that can spread germs such as viruses and bacteria. To reduce infection risk, it is recommended to use hand sanitizer, wash hands thoroughly, and avoid touching the face after contact with high-touch areas. Proper cleaning and personal hygiene are key to preventing illness from common hotel germs.
The risk of catching diseases from sitting on toilet seats is extremely low, as most pathogens like STDs and bloodborne viruses do not survive long outside the body. While some viruses like HPV can persist on surfaces for up to a week, transmission typically requires direct skin contact or compromised skin. Good hygiene practices, such as washing hands thoroughly and avoiding touching your face, are more effective than covering seats or squatting. Overall, public and home toilets are generally cleaner than people assume, and maintaining proper hygiene is the best way to prevent illness.
Phones can harbor many germs and should be cleaned regularly to prevent health risks, but using harsh chemicals can damage the device. Experts recommend using 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes and soft cloths, avoiding sprays and abrasive cleaners, and cleaning at least weekly, especially in high-risk environments, to maintain hygiene without damaging the phone.
Public pools can harbor germs like Cryptosporidium and Pseudomonas, but proper hygiene and precautions such as showering before and after swimming, avoiding swimming when sick, and not swallowing pool water can significantly reduce health risks. Chlorine kills many pathogens but doesn't eliminate all, and strong chlorine smells may indicate contamination. Following safety tips helps enjoy swimming while minimizing infection risks.
Public pools can harbor germs like Cryptosporidium and Pseudomonas, which chlorine may not fully eliminate, especially if the water is contaminated or if swimmers don't follow hygiene practices. To reduce risks, shower before and after swimming, avoid swimming when sick or with open wounds, and practice good hygiene. A strong chlorine smell often indicates contamination rather than cleanliness.