Flushing the toilet can release a ‘plume’ of breathable pathogens – and closing the lid won’t stop their escape

New scientific findings reveal that forceful toilet flushes can disperse microscopic particles into the air within arm’s reach of adults, potentially carrying harmful bacteria and viruses like Legionella, influenza, and norovirus. Unlike common assumptions, simply closing the lid may not prevent the release of these airborne contaminants, which can linger for at least 20 seconds. The study highlights an unexpected risk of household hygiene practices, raising questions about how to minimize exposure to these pathogens in everyday settings.

New research shows turbulent flushes create toilet-generated aerosols that can transmit legionella, influenza and norovirusGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastFlushing 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. Continue reading...