Flushing the toilet without closing the lid could cause droplets of the water to settle outside the bowl. The droplets of water are known as toilet plumes. Toilet plume could settle onto nearby objects in the bathroom, said in a study done in 2013.
SARS-CoV-2 could spread upon flushing
Now that there is coronavirus pandemic, scientists say that the virus may spread through toilet plumes. They conducted simulations and found that flush and "turbulence" in the bowl could propel droplets. They found that the droplets rose to more than three feet.
The droplets could become aerosols in the air, so they linger for a short period. Otherwise, they land on other bathroom surfaces.
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Coronavirus found in human feces
Some evidence shows that SARS-CoV-2 is present in human feces. Research proved that the virus stays in stools for up to a few weeks, even after recovery. The CDC is not yet sure whether the virus from the stool could cause COVID-19.
Researchers said that you should take extra precautions when using a toilet, especially if you share it with others. They noted that viruses could quickly transfer via the fecal-oral route. It does not exclude SARS-CoV-2. They suggest that blocking the path of fecal-oral transmission is vital to suppress the spread of viruses.
Close the toilet lid when flushing
There is one easy way anyone could do is to keep the lid down when flushing. The authors of the study said that by doing so, you prevent the spread of the virus. Another thing that they suggest is you wipe the seat after using it. They believe that floating virus particle could have settled onto the surfaces.
They also remind everyone to wash their hands with soap and water after each use. Make sure to scrub your hands for 20 seconds, including all the areas and between fingers.
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If water and soap are not available, a hand sanitizer will do. Some also advise applying hand sanitizer after hand wash.
Even if all these sound terrifying, there is no need to worry just yet. Do note that the findings were from simulation only. The study did not include any real-world proof that coronavirus could spread through flushing.
Transmission via the fecal-oral route is low
According to the CDC, no reports were confirming that SARS-CoV-2 could spread from feces to person. They still consider the chances of transmitting the virus via the fecal-oral route as relatively low.
A microbiologist at the University of Arizona, Charles P. Gerba, told "The Washington Post" his insights. He said that the risk is not zero, but no one knows how significant the risk is. He also said that the question is how much virus could cause the illness upon flushing it.
Researchers are now doing more studies on coronavirus and sewage. They want better to understand its effect against the spread of the virus.
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The best thing you could do is to keep practicing good hygiene. Try to shut the lid before flushing the toilet. Wear face masks, disinfect, and keep your distance when out in public.
