Public toilets, whether on the street or in a café, represent an ordeal dreaded by many. Women in particular are all too accustomed to gymnastic moves (also known as "Spiderman poses") that will keep them as far away from the demonic bowl as possible. But such extreme precautions against illnesses sitting there, somewhere on the bezel, are unnecessary, according to a doctor who works for Britain's National Health Service (NHS). Dr. Preethi Daniel, who explains that she is questioned very regularly on the question of microbes in this precise place, wishes to restore the truth and calm concerns. “To contract diseases, germs would have to be transferred directly from the glasses to the genitals, or through an open wound/wounds present on the legs or posterior. You are more likely to be struck by lightning or to observe chickens with teeth than to catch a sexually transmitted disease in a public bathroom “, she explains to the DailyMail .
The place is not the cleanest that exists (no kidding?!) and the risk, although smaller than we tend to think, is not zero. Bacteria such as E.coli and salmonella can indeed be present on a toilet seat and usually cause diarrhea, vomiting and/or fever. However, the ground is much more infected, which is why it is strongly advised not to remove your shoes (to relieve your feet if you wear heels for example). Preethu Daniel explains that the efforts put in place to avoid the disease can ironically cause it:needs to get out quickly, all of which can cause a urinary tract infection. Being in a hurry and not fully relieving your bladder can expose the body to harmful bacteria ". The best is to follow 3 basic hygiene rules which are to cover the bezel with toilet paper / clean it with antibacterial wipes, wash your hands after using the toilet and provide additional protection with disinfectant gel. As simple as that!
