A study analyzed samples of toothbrushes and showerheads and found more than 600 pathogens, many of which were unknown. But these are not dangerous diseases, and are actually beneficial to our health. “Our findings do not indicate a need for concern or additional cleaning.
Every corner of our bathrooms is home to a variety of microbes. A new study published by Northwestern Researchers analyzed samples from 32 toothbrushes and 92 showerheads collected from several Indian homes and identified hundreds of diseases, many of which have never been seen before.
Bacteria in our bathroom: Are they dangerous?
Most of the bacteria identified are bacteriophages, a group of bacteria that infect certain bacteria but pose no threat to humans. These diseases are still present in our environment but generally do not have a negative impact on our health. In fact, some may be beneficial. “Bacteria are everywhere, and most of them don’t make us sick,” said Erica Hartmann, who participated in the study. “The more we attack them with antibiotics, the more resistant or difficult they will become: we have to learn to live with them.”
The Effects of Bacteriophage Viruses
In fact, phages can be used to kill harmful organisms, such as those that burrow in pipes or water. The discovery could open up new ways to improve hygiene in homes and buildings. Studying the bacteria commonly found in our bathrooms could identify bacteria that could be used to treat antibiotic-resistant bacteria, an oft-discussed issue that poses a serious public health problem worldwide.
“There’s so much undiscovered biodiversity around us?”
“The number of infections we’re seeing is absolutely incredible,” said Erica Hartman. – We have discovered many diseases that we knew very little about and had never seen before. It is amazing how much undiscovered biodiversity there is around us,” he said. “And you don’t have to go far to find it: it is right under our noses.”
Toothbrushes and showerheads: How to keep them clean?
It is important to follow a few tips to improve the hygiene and performance of your toothbrush and showerhead. Rinsing your head with vinegar every few months can help remove limescale and improve drainage. Regular brushing is also recommended to prevent limescale buildup. It is recommended that brushes be replaced every three to four months or when the bristles become damaged. It is also a good idea to let them dry, preferably in an upright position, to reduce bacterial growth.
