Mobile phone users were found to be contaminated by the fecal bacteria E. coli, according to a UK-wide study released Saturday, Medical News Today reports. The study, done by researchers from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine and Queen Mary, University of London, featured 390 samples taken from mobile phones and hands across 12 cities in the UK. Participants were also asked about their hand washing habits. Results from the study showed one in six carries the E. coli bacteria, which can cause serious stomach problems and food poisoning. The bacteria are believed to be transferred from the hands of mobile phone users who don’t washing their hands with soap after using the bathroom, Medical News Today reports. Ninety-five percent of the participants claimed they washed their hands with soap, but the study results indicated 92 percent of their mobile phones and 82 percent of their hands carried the bacteria. More bacteria were found in cities within the northern region of the UK. The dirtiest city was found to be Glasgow. The highest rate of E. coli on hands was reported in London while mobile phone bacteria were greatest in Birmingham, reported The Digital Journal. The study's release coincides with the annual Global Handwashing Day, which takes place on the 15th of October. Hygiene expert and campaign leader for Global Handwashing Day Dr. Val Curtis of the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine told the press “This study provides more evidence that some people still don't wash their hands properly, especially after going to the toilet.""I hope the thought of having E. coli on their hands and phones encourages them to take more care in the bathroom -- washing your hands with soap is such a simple thing to do but there is no doubt it saves lives," she added, Medical News Today reports. Source 1:Medical Inspiration-For doctors and Medical students: Mobile Phone Carries E. Coli Bacteria Source 2:Baby Boomer Health, Aging & Retirement | Midlife Caregiving & Relationships | ThirdAge
