UAE doctors stress thorough cleaning of reusable items to prevent illness

Experts advise daily washing of water bottles and regular cleaning of reusable bags to avoid contamination

In the UAE, doctors are emphasizing the importance of thoroughly cleaning reusable everyday items to prevent potential health risks. Reusable products like water bottles, coffee cups, and shopping bags have become common in daily life, but they require more than a quick rinse to maintain hygiene, according to local health experts.

Dr. Enna Sondhi, a specialist in internal medicine at Prime Medical Centre, highlights that water bottles should be washed daily, even if they only contain water. She warns that inadequate cleaning can lead to the buildup of germs, potentially causing food poisoning symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. Sondhi also advises residents to wash coffee cups, food containers, and reusable straws after each use.

Dr. Malaz Yabrodi from Medcare Shaikh Saqr Al Qasimi Hospital points out that parts of reusable products, like bottle mouthpieces and rubber seals, often retain moisture and residue, which can harbor bacteria and mold. She recommends storing grocery bags in clean, dry places and avoiding prolonged storage of food in reusable containers at room temperature.

Dr. Rohit Jacob of Aster Clinic Business Bay underscores the risk of cross-contamination, where microorganisms from hands or surfaces transfer to items that come into contact with food and drinks. He cites an investigation linking a norovirus outbreak to a contaminated reusable grocery bag, illustrating the importance of proper storage environments.

Source: https://gulfnews.com/uae/health/why-your-reusable-everyday-essentials-need-more-than-a-quick-rinse-1.500734604