Long Lasting Germs

Posted by: xeniya on: November 6, 2008

• In: Random Thoughts
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A new study, conducted at the University of Virginia, shows that germs and bacteria can survive on many surfaces for more than 48 hours. The scientists tested surfaces in the homes of those who were ill and reported their results on Tuesday at the nation’s premier conference on infectious disease. Although doctors are still unaware of the amount of illnesses brought on by coming in contact with a germy surface, Dr. Birgit Winther and her team made a shocking discovery during their study two years ago. They found that germs survived in hotel rooms a day after guests left; therefore, those checking in were highly susceptible to the germs that remained. For the recent study, scientists began with 30 adults that displayed early symptoms of colds. They were all then asked to name 10 places in their homes that hey had touched within the last 18 hours. Researchers then used DNA tests to search for rhino-virus, which causes about half of all colds. Their results were shocking; all three of the salt and pepper shakers tested were contaminated, 6 out of 10 doorknobs were also found to harbor germs as well as 8 out of 14 refrigerator handles, 6 of 10 remote controls and 3 of 4 dishwasher handles.