The screen of your cell phone may contain these bacteria that put your health at risk

Experts warn of the presence of six types of bacteria that can be harmful to health.

The screens of the "smartphone" can contain up to six types of bacteria, the most common being the genus "Staphylococcus spp", that colonize the skin and the nasal mucosa and that, on occasion, skin conditions such as impetigo, cellulitis or even otitis externa, have been reported by the Board Member of the Microbiology Association. and Health (AMYS) and Deputy Physician of Basurto University Hospital (Vizcaya), Mikele Male

In addition, although to a lesser extent, they have been detected bacteria of the genus 'Streptococcus spp.'may cause various infections, such as pharyngitis or pneumonia, and enterobacteria such as "Escherichia coli" or "Salmonella spp", what, as the expert warned, reflects fecal contamination of hands that use mobile devices and can cause significant intestinal and extra-intestinal diseases.

Other bacteria like & # 39; Klebsiella penumoniae & quot ;, & quot; Pseudomonas aeruginosa & quot; or & Acinetobacter baumanii & # 39; they can also cause opportunistic infectious diseases in the most vulnerable populations.

On the other hand, the voice of AMYS also reported that mobile phones can serve as transmitters of fungi and environmental viruses, like that of the flu or other respiratory viruses in times of epidemic.

"Mobile devices are composed of smooth, irregular surfaces, often protected by plastic protectors, that generate niches where dirt and sweat can accumulate. In addition, they emit heat, which gives them favorable conditions for the growth of micro-organisms, "he said.

In addition, he adds, these phones are often stored in pockets, bags or on surfaces that may also be contaminated by micro-organisms, making them a means of spreading infectious diseases.

How to avoid contagion?

For Mr. Macho, the simplest and most effective prevention measure to prevent the transmission of microorganisms through mobile phones is the hand hygiene of users, which involves washing their hands at the same time. Water and soap. although they do not have visible dirt. It is also helpful to keep the mobile device clean and disinfected regularly and regularly with the help of a microfiber cloth soaked in alcohol.

From an informational point of view, microbiology professionals can help solve this problem by producing and publishing studies showing the transmission of microorganisms from mobile devices to the population.

"There is a need to educate both health professionals and citizens about the importance of applying hygiene practices, especially hand hygiene, which is the measure the most important to prevent the transmission of microorganisms and, ultimately, to prevent the spread of infectious diseases ", is installed.