Apple and Fitbit Watch Bands Become Hotbeds of Dangerous Bacteria. PHOTOS/CNET
MENLO PARK – Scientist found that Apple Watch bands or Fitbit bracelets are potential breeding grounds for harmful bacteria associated with fever, diarrhea and a weakened immune system.
Tests on various types of frequently used watches and bracelets found that these accessories contained E. coli and Staphylococcus spp bacteria which can cause pneumonia.
Professor of Biological Sciences at Florida Atlantic University and lead author of the study, Nwadiuto Esiobu said the types of rope most contaminated with germs were those made of plastic, rubber, cloth, leather and metal.
However, a team of scientists found that watch bands or bracelets made of gold and silver were the cleanest.
Esiobu said gym goers showed the highest amount of bacteria accumulation that could cause sepsis or death, emphasizing the importance of cleaning accessories after exercise.
“The presence of Pseudomonas bacteria was detected in 30 percent of smart bracelets and watches,”
“Intestinal bacteria E. coli which is usually spread through faeces or mouth were also found in 60 percent of the samples,”
“This situation poses a public health concern. The quantity and taxonomy of bacteria we found indicates the need to clean the surfaces of these tools regularly,” he told the Daily Mail.
Esiobu also emphasized that health workers who are active and often go to the gym need to pay attention to research findings to avoid the risk of infecting patients with germs attached to their smart watches or bracelets.
(wbs)
2023-08-19 09:35:42
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