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• Bacteria like E. coli and salmonella, which cause stomach bugs
• Viruses, like cold or flu
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Your Phone Is Gross!
Why it’s a sneaky spot for germs—and what you can do about it
Addictive Creative/Offset (Phone); Shutterstock.com (All Other Images)
Your Phone Is Gross!
A- From falling on the floor of the school cafeteria
B- From being stuck in your bag next to your sneakers
C- From being sneezed on by your brother
What’s Hiding?
By the numbers
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24-48
That’s how many hours the flu virus can live on a hard surface like your phone.
186
That’s how many times, on average, Americans check their phones daily.
1 in 5
That’s how many Americans clean their phones every day. (Experts say you should!)
How to Germ-Proof Your Device
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DO use a soft cloth and a safe cleaning solution (look for 70 percent isopropyl alcohol).
DON’T use hand sanitizers or paper towels—they can damage your phone.
DO make sure your phone is off and not charging before you clean it.
DON’T use your phone while on the toilet. (Almost 68 percent of people do!)
DO wash your hands with soap and warm water often.
Sources: Fortune, PBS, The New York Times, Reviews.org
Your Turn: Make a sign reminding people to clean their phones daily. Include three details from the infographic. Hang your sign at home, at school, or anywhere else where you spend time.
Skills Sheets
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Text-to-Speech