A new study published by “Sens AlertSmart watch straps are potentially full of harmful bacteria.
The study revealed that 95 percent of the 20 different smart watch straps tested were contaminated with pathogenic bacteria.
The research team, from Florida Atlantic University, tested pathogenic species such as staphylococcus aureus, enterobacteriaceae (such as Escherichia coli) and Pseudomonas, which can all cause infections under certain conditions.
However, there were differences in the types of bracelets used, with the rubber and plastic bands containing the highest number of bacteria, while the metal bands tested (particularly gold and silver) were almost free of bacteria.
“Plastic and rubber bands may provide a more favorable environment for bacteria to grow, as porous and firm surfaces tend to attract and colonize bacteria,” says Florida Atlantic University biologist Nwadiotu Esiopu.
While other research has shown that wristwatches and the like can be potential sources of infection in hospitals, few investigations have looked into the detail of how different materials harbor microbes.
The bacteria tested in this study are among the most common bacteria found in the body and in the environment, and in certain circumstances, can lead to diseases such as abscesses, pneumonia and salmonella.
“The amount and classification of bacteria that we found on the bands shows that there is a need for regular disinfection of these surfaces,” Isiobo adds, and points out the need to “examine other possible forms of transmission of bacteria and facilitation of infection, such as in earphones or mobile phones, for example.”
2023-09-03 08:21:51
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