We’ve all had to endure using a public toilet at least once in our lives, and the uncomfortable, ‘gross’ feeling that it can leave you with.
Dr Preethi Daniel, a GP at the London Doctors Clinic, has set the record straight on exactly how you can avoid catching a disease from a public toilet.
The well-known myth that you can contract a sexually transmitted infection from public toilet seats is shut down by Dr Daniel who says you are more like ‘likely to be struck by lightning whilst riding a flying pig than catching a sexually transmitted disease’ from a public toilet seat, so you shouldn’t be too worried.
Dr Daniel says you can catch a urine infection by using a public toilet, as well as the risk of being exposed to germs such as E-Coli or Salmonella.
However, it’s how she says you contract it that is most surprising.
Apparently, according to Dr Daniel, all that squatting and hovering we do to avoid touching the toilet seat, and the mad rush we are in the get out of the toilet cubicle, is what is giving us the urine infection.
By not emptying your bladder completely, in a rush or by squatting, you are exposing your body to potentially harmful bacteria. This can, in turn, increase your chances of getting a urinary tract infection.
Here are some helpful tips to put in place:
1. Make sure you wash your hands thoroughly after using the toilet
2. Carry a travel size antibacterial hand sanitizer for extra protection
3. Cover the toilet seat with toilet paper or use antibacterial wipes
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