Surprising fact about objects in the bathroom, revealed in a recent study by American researchers. Researchers have found that toothbrushes and showerheads harbor more than 600 different types of viruses, many completely unknown before.
The research team, led by Dr. Erica Hartmann, analyzed 96 shower heads and 34 toothbrushes. The results showed that each object represents a “unique microcosm”, a real “island” of microorganisms.
“In total, the samples collected included more than 600 different viruses, and no two samples were alike. And the viruses present on the shower heads were not present on the toothbrushes and vice versa,” explains Hartmann, quoted by cnews.fr.
Simple hygiene measures by which we can protect ourselves
But before you panic and throw away all the items in the bathroom, experts have some reassuring news. These viruses are mostly harmless to humans. Many viruses are bacteriophages, which infect only bacteria and are naturally present in the environment.
“Microbes are everywhere, and the vast majority of them won’t make us sick,” Hartmann pointed out. She even warns that overusing disinfectants can be counterproductive, helping microbes develop resistance.
However, researchers recommend some simple hygiene measures, such as changing your toothbrush every 3 months, regularly cleaning shower heads with vinegar or soapy water.
The study points out that other items in the bathroom, such as towels, razors or shower curtains, can be sources of microorganisms.
Source: www.descopera.ro
