We are increasingly using so-called smart watches. There are literally millions of users who never leave home without their computer. They sleep with the watch, exercise and trust the device to monitor health and well-being data. However, there must be some care. According to a new study, 95% of 20 smart watch straps tested were contaminated with bacteria capable of causing illness.
Owners of smartwatches and fitness trackers may face certain issues. A new study has revealed that 95% of 20 different smartwatch straps tested were contaminated with bacteria that can be harmful to health.
The research team, from Florida Atlantic University, tested potentially disease-causing species Staphylococcus, Intestinal bacteria (such as Escherichia coli) and PseudoWhat It can cause infections under certain conditions.
But did all bracelets cause these problems?
In fact, there were differences in the type of bracelet used: rubber and plastic bracelets contained the most bacteria, while the metal bracelets tested (particularly gold and silver) were practically bacteria-free.
Plastic and rubber bracelets may provide a more favorable environment for bacteria to grow, as porous and firm surfaces tend to attract and colonize bacteria.
says biologist Nwadioto Esiobu Florida Atlantic University.
Although research has shown that wristwatches and similar materials can be potential sources of infection in hospital environments, few investigations have looked into the details of how different materials harbor opportunistic microbes in the broader community.
The bacteria tested are among the most common bacteria found in the body and environment. Under the right (or very wrong) conditions, they can cause diseases such as abscesses, pneumonia, and salmonella.
There were no clear differences between male and female participants in the study, although the activities they did had an effect, with gym-goers' bracelets having the highest levels of staph bacteria.
The study points to something of an anomaly in our usual hygiene routines: Although we wear watches and other items of clothing most or all of the day, we rarely think about cleaning them (although credit goes to the user, if they do).
The quantity and classification of bacteria that we found on the bracelets show that it is necessary to clean these surfaces regularly. Even in relatively low numbers, these pathogens are important to public health.
It is important to highlight that the ability of many of these bacteria to significantly impact the health of immunocompromised hosts indicates a particular need for regular cleaning of these surfaces by healthcare professionals and others in hospital environments.
Esiobu explained.
Smart watches: Tips for keeping bracelets clean from bacteria
The researchers tested a few different cleaning agents to see which were most effective: Lysol brand disinfectant spray, a mixture of 70% ethanol (also known as ethyl alcohol) (the kind often used in hospitals) and apple cider vinegar, a more natural combination.
In terms of destroying bacteria, the Lysol spray (a disinfectant we can use at home) and ethanol mixture killed 99.9% of bacteria within 30 seconds on all materials. On the other hand, apple cider vinegar was not effective against all types of bacteria and needed more time to work.
This study allows the researchers' work to raise awareness of the need for further cleanup of this matter a tool From daily life, who sleeps with users, goes to the gym, frequents hospitals, can be a way to transmit bacteria. In addition, of course, to be in regular contact with our skin.
Other potential forms of bacterial transmission and facilitation of infection, such as earphones or mobile phones, should be considered in a similar manner.
The investigator concluded.
The investigation was published in the magazine Advances in infectious diseases.
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