…vortices. These vortices continue upward into the air above the bowl, carrying droplets to a height of nearly three feet, where they might be inhaled or settle onto surfaces. These droplets are so small they float in the air for over a minute,” said co-author of the study Ji-Xiang Wang, of Yangzhou University.
The computer simulation used for the study showed that these aerosolized droplets last long enough to be breathed in by the next user in a busy setting. “One can foresee that the velocity will be even higher when a toilet is used frequently, such as in the case of a family toilet during a busy time or a public toilet serving a densely populated area,” Wang continued.
The scientists said the “alarming results” of the study led them to advocate several safety procedures:
- Put down the lid before flushing
- Clean the seat before using the toilet
- And of course, wash your hands afterwards because virus particles may be present on the toilet handle and door handle.
It may seem like a simple or small thing, but it makes so much difference. Before you know it, it will be a healthy habit you won’t have to think twice about.
