Flushing the toilet can release a ‘plume’ of breathable pathogens – and closing the lid won’t stop their escape
A new study reveals that flushing a toilet releases a plume of aerosolized particles that can remain suspended in the air for at least 20 seconds. These bioaerosols may carry pathogens like influenza and norovirus, and researchers suggest that closing the lid does not fully prevent their escape.
Why it matters
Understanding the transmission of pathogens via bathroom aerosols is critical for public health and hygiene protocols in both public and private facilities.
Flushing a toilet can release particles into the air that remain suspended for at least 20 seconds, a new study has found. Flushing a toilet can release particles into the air that remain suspended for at least 20 seconds, a new study has found. Australia news Flushing the toilet can release a ‘plume’ of breathable pathogens – and closing the lid won’t stop their escape New research shows turbulent flushes create toilet-generated aerosols that can transmit legionella, influenza and norovirus
Get our breaking news email , free app or daily news podcast
Prefer the Guardian on Google Flushing toilets release particles into the “breathing zone” of adults and can remain suspended in the air for at least 20 seconds, a new study has found.
And closing the lid might not be enough to avoid a “plume” of potential pathogens.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in