Are Smartphones Making You Sick? New Study Highlights the Importance of Device Hygiene

If you often find yourself catching colds or other common seasonal illnesses, your smartphone might be part of the problem. A new study from the United Arab Emirates has revealed that ensuring the cleanliness of smartphones and smartwatches can significantly improve your health.

The Study’s Findings

The joint study, conducted by the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences and Bond University in Australia, focused on the link between device hygiene and health. Researchers discovered that while hand hygiene is crucial, it loses its effectiveness if smartphones and other personal devices are not cleaned regularly.

Why Smartphones Harbor Germs

Smartphones, with their touch screens and constant proximity to their users, provide an ideal environment for the growth of disease-causing germs. The warm temperatures and frequent handling contribute to this problem. Since our phones accompany us everywhere, from public places to our homes, they can become a major vector for transferring germs.

Methodology

The study involved staff members from a medical center, examining samples from their mobile phones and smartwatches. Metagenomics sequencing technology was used to analyze the germs present on their hands as well as their devices. The results were striking: the same germs found on hands were also present on phones and watches, including some that could resist drugs and even traces of the coronavirus.

Health Implications

The presence of these germs on device screens poses a significant health threat. However, the researchers emphasized that regular cleaning of mobile phones can mitigate this risk. They suggest incorporating smartphone cleaning into daily routines, much like handwashing.

Recommendations for Device Hygiene

Experts recommend the following tips to keep your devices germ-free:

1. Regular Cleaning: Make it a habit to clean your smartphone and smartwatch daily.
2. Use Sanitization Wipes: Opt for sanitization wipes specifically designed for electronic devices to avoid damaging the screens.
3. Avoid Cleaning While Charging: Refrain from cleaning your phone when it is connected to a charger to prevent electrical hazards.

By following these guidelines, you can reduce the risk of transferring germs from your devices to your hands and ultimately to your body.

Conclusion

As we become increasingly dependent on our smartphones and smartwatches, it is essential to consider their cleanliness as part of our health routine. Ensuring that our devices are as clean as our hands can go a long way in protecting us from common illnesses and maintaining overall well-being.

Incorporate these simple yet effective practices into your daily life to keep the germs at bay and safeguard your health.