Key Takeaway
New research shows turbulent flushes create toilet-generated aerosols that can transmit legionella, influenza and norovirusGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastFlushing toilets release particles into the “breathing zone” of adults and can remain suspended in the air for at least 20 seconds, a new study has found. And closing the lid might not be enough to…
Published September 8, 2026 · Category: News
Overview
New research shows turbulent flushes create toilet-generated aerosols that can transmit legionella, influenza and norovirus
Flushing toilets release particles into the “breathing zone” of adults and can remain suspended in the air for at least 20 seconds, a new study has found.
Details
And closing the lid might not be enough to avoid a “plume” of potential pathogens.
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Source
Originally published at www.theguardian.com.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is "Flushing the toilet can release a ‘plume’ of breathable pathogens – and closing the lid won’t stop their escape" about?+
New research shows turbulent flushes create toilet-generated aerosols that can transmit legionella, influenza and norovirusGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastFlushing toilets release particles into the “breathing zone” of adults and can remain suspended in the air for at least 20 seconds, a new study has found.And closing the lid might not be enough to avoid a “plume” of potential pathogens. Continue reading...
Who reported this story?+
This story was reported by The Guardian World.