Were you aware that your body hosts trillions of bacteria, both beneficial and harmful? Our immune system safeguards us from harmful pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms. However, if our immune system fails, these harmful bacteria can make us sick, potentially affecting not only us but also those around us.

In a conversation with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Shobha Subramanian Itolikar, an Internal Medicine Consultant at Fortis Hospital in Mulund, revealed that, according to a recent study in Florida, all of us carry harmful bacteria on our mobile phones and smartwatches, spreading these germs without realizing it. Despite this negative aspect, smartwatches play a critical role in helping individuals around the world achieve their fitness goals, thanks to their ability to monitor vital health signs like heart rate, stress levels, and activity levels.

Most of us use wearables from dawn to dusk, exposing them to sweat, dirt, and even toilet pathogens. As we don't clean these devices frequently, they can easily become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, and Escherichia Coli. The type of wristbands used further influences the amount of bacteria on these devices, with rubber and plastic varieties being the most contaminated, while metal bands, especially those made of gold and silver, are virtually bacteria-free.

These bacteria capable of spreading can be dangerous, particularly for individuals with a weakened immune system, such as children, older adults, diabetics, and cancer patients. While the wearable users may have a strong immune system that keeps them from getting sick, they can still unwittingly carry and spread pathogens, posing a threat to those with compromised immune systems.

To avoid bacterial colonization, Dr. Itolikar gave a number of tips on smartwatch care: choose a watch with a metal wristband, replace the rubber or plastic band every three months if you are a frequent user, remove the watch when using the restroom or washing your hands, wipe down the watch regularly with alcohol-based cleaners, paying particular attention to moving parts and uneven areas.

It is essential to promote the importance of cleaning and disinfecting wearables, particularly those we use daily. These preventive measures can significantly reduce disease spread and the potential for highly infectious viral outbreaks.

A health professional shares advice on how to avoid spreading diseases and viral infections, as smartwatches and fitness bands are often found to contain harmful bacteria.