According to a January 2012 study conducted by the Microbiology Department of Leeds General Infirmary in the UK, C. difficile bacteria were commonly spread in hospital bathrooms without toilet seat covers. The report states the bacteria were found in the bathroom air nearly 90 minutes after the toilet was flushed. The problem was greater in bathrooms where the toilet had no lid. Considerable contamination was found in household bathrooms as well. Exposure to these bacteria can cause severe diarrhea and inflammation of the colon.
Dr. Oz talked about the importance of closing your toilet lid on his television show. Research shows that each toilet flush creates an unseen mist that can travel up to 15 feet in all directions; microdroplets of toilet water land on everything within the flush zone, including toothbrushes, cosmetics and drinking cups; and, this unseen mist can stay in the air for 2 hours or more. It also can be inhaled; and, these pathogens can live on surfaces for up to one week. Water glasses and toothbrushes should be stored in your medicine cabinet. Watch Dr. Oz’s video below for more information:
And, please close the toilet lid before you flush!
Author: Sharon V.B. Roulhac, CHC, I-ACT certified colon hydrotherapist
