Mobile phones bacteria dirtier than toilet

Analysis of 30 mobile handsets found that seven had high or warning levels of environmental bacteria. One contained such an intense concentration of bacteria, including faecal coliforms, that anyone using it could have faced a serious stomach upset.

Findings suggest millions of mobiles would exceed the recommended acceptable levels of bacteria. While not immediately harmful, elevated levels of bacteria indicate poor hygiene and can act as a breeding ground for more serious germs.

The tests showed how easily bacteria could linger on the surface of a phone, which could be passed on to other people if they held the handset to look at photos or other applications. They advises that phones can be cleaned with an alcohol wipe.

Tags: bacteria mobile phones, health  problems with mobile phone, dangers of mobile phone