Essay On Sneeze Effect

Have you heard about the "sneeze effect" that happened everytime you flush the toilet? “Sneeze effect” is a term originated by Dr Charles Gerba after he had conducted an experiment on the spread of bacteria when a toilet is flushed.

The studies showed that each time the toilet is flushed, an invisible cloud of dirty water and fecal bacteria are projected out of the toilet bowl spreading up to 8 feet away. This spread of bacteria can survive up to 24 hours and transmit to the entire washroom in less than a minute. The bacteria will then spread to entire premises like a wildfire by people who did not wash their hands after using the toilet.

Here are some unsuspecting items that could be contaminated by these nasty fecal bacteria:

1) Mobile

Both your keyboard and your mouse are high germ transfer points because of the amount of times we come into contact with them. These hidden germs are transmitted when you touch the contaminated items and then put your hands to your mouth, nose and eyes.

3) Coffee Cups

The research team at the University of Arizona found that 40% of coffee cups in the office pantry were contaminated with the E.coli. Although it was mainly caused when by germs laden sponges, poor hand hygiene practices also contributed to the transmission of bacteria.

4) Working Desk

Another study by Dr. Gerba showed that most desks hosted 21,000 germs per square inch. This germs invasion is often due to the lack of hygiene and cleanliness. As we work and eat at our desks every day, we often forget to sanitise the location, leaving a perfect condition for bacteria to grow.

5) Handbags

Researchers at Initial Hygiene found that an average handbag is three times dirtier than an office toilet seat. The tests also revealed that leather handbags are the most bacteria-riddled as the spongy texture provides the perfect conditions for bacteria to grow and spread.

6) Lift