Is flushing the toilet with the lid open harmful? Discover!

The expert explains which diseases can be transmitted if you flush the toilet with the toilet lid open

Flushing the toilet after using the toilet seems to be a simple and routine task. But do the shooting with the lid open is harmful and can generate serious health risks by spreading particles of water, urine, feces and waste into the air, a phenomenon known as the “aerosol effect”.

When the flush is flushed, the force of the water creates a fine spray that can contain bacteria, viruses and other pathogens found in the waste. These particles can spread throughout the bathroom, contaminating nearby surfaces such as toothbrushes, towels and other personal hygiene items.

“This risk is particularly relevant in environments where multiple people use the same toilet, increasing the chances of disease transmission. Therefore, it is recommended to close the lid before flushing to minimize the dispersion of these contaminants into the air,” explains pharmacist Margareth Wedge.

Discharge risks with the lid open

In addition to contaminating the environment, water and waste particles released into the air can reach various parts of the body, especially exposed areas. According to the expert, the main parts of the body are the face and mouth, eyes, hands and even clothes and hair.

“These particles can not only contaminate skin and clothes, but also transfer to other surfaces or objects when touched, such as towels and toothbrushes, increasing the risk of infection,” warns the coordinator of the Biomedicine course at the Centro Universitário Braz Cubas.

Diseases transmitted when washing with the lid open

1. Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis can be caused by bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) e Salmonella. They are common in feces and can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever and vomiting.

2. Infections Clostridium difficile

The bacteria Clostridium difficile It is resistant to many treatments and can cause severe diarrhea, especially in people who already have compromised immune systems.

3. Urinary infections

Bacteria like it Enterococcus AND Proteus mirabilis they can be released into the air and cause urinary tract infections. Contagion can occur through contact with the skin or mucous membranes through contaminated toilet paper and towels during flushing.

4. Hepatitis A

Present in feces, the virus that causes hepatitis A can be transmitted through accidental ingestion of contaminated particles, causing inflammation of the liver.

5. Norovirus

Known to cause outbreaks of gastroenteritis, norovirus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through airborne viral particles.

6. Giardiasis

Giardiasis is an infection caused by the ingestion of protozoan cysts Giardia lambliapresent in feces. Transmitted through contaminated water or surfaces, it causes diarrhea and dehydration.

7. Rotavirus

A common cause of diarrhea in children, rotavirus can be transmitted through inhalation of contaminated particles.

How to prevent disease transmission?

According to the pharmacist, the best way to prevent contamination is to always close the toilet lid before flushing. This not only guarantees the health of the person taking the shot, but also protects other people who share the same bathroom, ensuring the cleanliness and safety of the objects.

“Regular and adequate maintenance of the lid, for example avoiding the use of very aggressive cleaning products, can prolong its useful life, avoiding the need for frequent replacements”, concludes Margareth.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.