According the researchers, mobile devices were tested for traces of viral RNA, such as “potentially epidemic respiratory viruses (influenza A and B, respiratory syncytial virus and human metapneumovirus) and the common enteric viruses rotavirus and norovirus.” Almost 40% of mobile phones in a French hospital were found to be carrying traces of viral RNA, according to one survey, while another showed that 20% of hospital staff admit they don't follow hand hygiene procedures. The WHO says the virus is spread through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood and vomit, but it has not yet been confirmed whether this was also happening at hospitals. Although there are strict regimes in place for the cleaning and sterilisation of healthcare devices, mobile phones can be overlooked. Elizabeth Botelho-Nevers, co-author, believes that the study should encourage hospitals to increase take-up of hand hygiene protocols and also give rise to better policies for the cleaning and disinfection of mobile phones.
Almost 40% of mobile phones in a French hospital were found to be carrying traces of viral RNA, according to one survey, while another showed that 20% of hospital staff admit they don't follow hand hygiene procedures. The WHO says the virus is spread through contact with infected bodily fluids, such as blood and vomit, but it has not yet been confirmed whether this was also happening at hospitals. Although there are strict regimes in place for the cleaning and sterilisation of healthcare devices, mobile phones can be overlooked. Elizabeth Botelho-Nevers, co-author, believes that the study should encourage hospitals to increase take-up of hand hygiene protocols and also give rise to better policies for the cleaning and disinfection of mobile phones.