Smartphones are repositories of dog and cat allergens, according to new research

According to the 2018 US Census, 85% of American households have smartphones. They are reportedly viewed 14 million times a day, making them potential targets for environmental hazards such as allergies. A new study being presented at this year’s American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) annual scientific meeting in Louisville, KY, shows high levels of cat and dog allergies as well. b-D glucans (BDGs) and endotoxins on a simulated telephone model.

“Smartphones showed elevated and variable levels of BDG and endotoxin, and cat and dog allergens were found on pet owners’ smartphones,” says Hana Ruran, lead author of the study. “BDGs are found in fungal cell walls and in many environments and surfaces that cause chronic airway and bothersome symptoms – making BDG a consistent marker for studying problematic molds. Endotoxin is a potent inflammatory agent and A marker of exposure to gram negative bacteria.

The researchers created phone models that had the same shape and surface as the real phone, and the front surface of the phone model was erased as part of the test. Electrostatic wipes (ESW) were used to sample a simulated phone model of 15 volunteers and the “phones” were then measured for allergen, BDG and endotoxin levels.

The chemicals used in the mixing solution for cleaning (chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium chloride, tannic acid and benzyl benzoate) can be purchased through the laboratory or chemical suppliers but are not commercially available in the same concentrations used in the study. Isopropyl alcohol wipes were also tested for their cleaning properties.

“Combination chlorhexidine/cetylpyridinium was most effective in reducing BDG and endotoxin and combination benzyl benzoate/tannic acid was most effective in reducing cat and dog allergies on smartphones,” says Professor Peter Thorne, PhD, at the University of Iowa Department of Public Health & Co. reduces. Study author. “Studies show exposure to inhalant allergens and molecules that trigger innate immune responses from sources that most people haven’t considered. If you have allergies or asthma, you can reduce your exposure to these allergy and asthma triggers.” To do this, you can think of cleaning your smartphone more often.