Wipe down those cell phones to prevent spread of viruses

[Shiloh]

Source: http://www.dailyleaderextra.com/news...b30cb6cf0.html

Wipe down those cell phones to prevent spread of viruses
Posted: Thursday, March 5, 2020 2:56 pm
By CHUCK CLEMENT, Staff Reporter

Medical professionals are recommending that everyone clean their cell phones and smart phones on a regular schedule to help restrain the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus and other viruses such as the flu virus.

Persons typically spread viruses, including the COVID-19 virus, by sneezing or coughing and a recent study of mobile devices used by 250 hospital staff found that coronaviruses can survive for up to nine days on the glass and plastic surfaces of cell phones. Medical professionals have judged that cleaning cell phones may prove a more important health measure than wearing facemask.

Experts estimate that some cell phone users touch their phones more than 2,600 times each day, and the devices can carry 10 times more bacteria (no estimate was given for viruses) than toilet seats.

Some cell phone companies advise cleaning their devices with microfiber cloth and soapy water. Other cell phone providers recommend cleaning wipes and household soap, and yet other providers advise a cloth using laundry detergent.

The science surrounding the COVID-19 virus continues to evolve and what medical professional know about the virus is subject to change...

[Shiloh]

Source: https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-new...an-your-phone/

...Most newer phones have screens that can be damaged by harsh chemicals. Instead, phone manufacturers suggest wiping it down with a damp cloth.

There are also portable phone cleaners such as the Hands Swipe or the Phonesoap Shine.

UV sanitizers like the one from Phonesoap promise to kill 99.9 percent of germs.

It’s also a good idea to avoid touching your phone after contact with shared surfaces, such as hand rails, ATMs, or airport security bins...