Staphylococcus, pneumonia and salmonellosis: what bacteria are stored on the strap of a smart watch
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A large number of harmful bacteria are stored on the strap of a smart watch, including the causative agents of pneumonia, salmonellosis, and staphylococcus. Scientists from Florida Atlantic University came to these conclusions, they published their research in Advances in Infectious Diseases, writes Science Alert. “The bracelet of smart watches and fitness trackers is often worn during activity: while sweating, swimming, holding pets or even sleeping. However, they are often not disinfected regularly and therefore can be an important source of transmission of bacteria and infection,” the researchers note. . Scientists tested 20 different smartwatch straps, and 95% of them had significant bacterial colonies. Photo: kantver/Depositphotos The most polluted are rubber and plastic bracelets. At the same time, metal ones (especially gold and silver ones) practically did not contain bacteria. “Plastic and rubber bracelets may provide a more suitable environment for bacteria to grow, as porous and static surfaces tend to attract and colonize bacteria,” says biologist Nwadiuto Esiobu of Florida Atlantic University. The bacteria tested in this study are among the most common bacteria found on the body and in the environment. Scientists have discovered bacteria that cause pneumonia, salmonellosis, skin inflammations, as well as the pathogen S. aureus, which acts as a human pathogen, causing boils, sepsis, pyomyositis, botryomycosis and endocarditis. In the observations of scientists, there were no noticeable differences between men and women who participated in the study. Watches from the study But researchers found high levels of staph bacteria on the wristbands of gym goers. “The number and classification of bacteria we found on the bracelets show that there is a need for regular sanitation of these surfaces. Even at relatively low numbers, these pathogens have health implications,” adds researcher Esiobu. It will be recalled that earlier scientists studied smartphone screens. On them, they detected pathogenic strains of Escherichia coli, antibiotic-resistant staphylococci or streptococci and others that could survive on the surface of the gadget. Headphones are also a source of infection and require thorough cleaning, just like a watch strap and a smartphone screen. Read also: How time in front of the screen affects the development of babies: research
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