Phoenix, Arizona – Scientists from the University of Arizona have revealed that flushing the toilet can disperse a plume of bacteria and viruses, posing a potential health risk. This phenomenon, known as a “toilet plume,” releases tiny droplets that spread through the air and settle on all surfaces in the bathroom.
Surprisingly, the scientists found that whether the toilet lid is up or down makes no difference in reducing the contamination. Instead, they recommend regularly cleaning the toilet bowl with disinfectant to eliminate the worst of the bacteria and make flushing safe regardless of lid position.
The issue of toilet plumes has been known since the 1950s, with studies using green light and lasers showing that these aerosol droplets can fly up to 4.9 feet above the toilet within eight seconds. These aerosols can carry bacteria and viruses such as E. Coli, norovirus, and even Covid 19, posing a risk of infection, especially in hospital wards or for those with compromised immune systems.
To further understand the spread of bacteria, researchers conducted a study using samples of MS2 bacteria, a model for E. Coli, to seed public and private toilets. The results showed that closing the lid did not significantly reduce bacterial contamination, but it did change the trajectory of the plume, directing it down towards the floor rather than straight up in the air.
The study also found that the use of disinfectant, especially Lysol, during routine toilet cleaning significantly reduced the contamination of the toilet water and surrounding areas. This emphasizes the importance of regular disinfection of restroom surfaces, especially when someone in the household has an active viral infection.
Overall, the research sheds light on the potential health risks associated with flushing the toilet and provides practical recommendations for minimizing bacterial contamination in the bathroom, emphasizing the importance of disinfection in reducing the spread of infections.