This research shows that hand basins may be playing a significant and underestimated role in health care-associated infections (HAIs)," said Harriet Whiley, an associate professor of environmental health."
On top of that, residential sinks showed not only a higher number of Legionella bacteria compared to hospital sinks, but also a more diverse bacterial community, Whiley noted.
The slimy substance that builds up on sink drains, bowl edges, and faucet bases is far from harmless gunk. It's a fine layer of bacteria called biofilm.
Handwashing sinks are a recognized source of HAIs, which globally impact 7% of high-income and 15% of low- and middle-income hospital patients, according to WHO.
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