Australian researchers believe that mobile phones can significantly impact the management of epidemics in the future. A study by scientists at Bond University in Queensland indicated that mobile phones are contaminated with dangerous pathogens such as bacteria and viruses, which undermine the benefits of handwashing.
Dr. Lottie Tagouri, an assistant professor of molecular biology at Bond University, stated, "The phones that were wiped in the study are completely contaminated with bacteria, viruses, fungi, and even parasites."
The study found that 98% of healthcare workers are aware that mobile phones are contaminated, with 52% of them admitting to using their phones while in the bathroom, and 57% stating that they have never cleaned them.
Dr. Tagouri also added that biological security and plans to be implemented at airports and public facilities should consider measures to disinfect mobile phones, after finding animal and plant pathogens on them, according to the Daily Mail.
