’No evidence of airborne COVID-19 in public toilets’

ANU Sotiris Vardoulakis: 'We found no evidence of airborne transmission of pathogens, including COVID-19, in public washrooms.'   - Researchers have found "no evidence of airborne transmission of COVID-19 within public washrooms", in a new study led by The Australian National University (ANU). In a systematic review, published in Science of Total Environment , researchers looked at the risk of transmission of various viral and bacterial infections through inhalation, surface contact and faecal-oral routes in public toilets in studies published over 20 years from 2000 to 2020.   - "We found no evidence of airborne transmission of pathogens, including COVID-19, in public washrooms," ANU Professor Sotiris Vardoulakis said.   -   - "We found that the risk of getting COVID-19 from a public toilet is low if people keep up good hand hygiene and the bathroom is well maintained.   - "We realise people are worried about using public washrooms during the pandemic, but if you minimise your time in the bathroom, wash and dry your hands properly, and don't use your mobile phone, eat or drink, then bathroom use should remain low risk." The researchers say public health measures should still be strictly followed. "People still need to stay safe and follow their local public health advice," Professor Vardoulakis said.