Biologist warns Russians about dangerous microbes on second-hand clothes
The demand for second-hand clothing has increased dramatically over the past few years.
Consumers are looking to used clothing as a cheaper option to expand their wardrobe.
However, experts advise not to rush to put on a second-hand purchase. First, it should be properly disinfected, writes the Conversation portal.
The warning is due to the fact that clothing can actually be a source of many infectious diseases.
Primrose Freestone, senior lecturer in clinical microbiology at the University of Leicester, explained that many of the microbes that inhabit the skin include staph bacteria, fungi and viruses.
Studies have shown that second-hand clothing can cause E. coli, norovirus, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, athlete's foot and ringworm.
Moreover, research shows that many germs can survive on clothing for months at room temperature.
People with weakened immune systems are likely to be at greatest risk.
This is why washing second-hand clothes after purchase is so important.
Used items should be washed with detergent at a temperature of about 60 degrees.
Washing will not only clean your clothes from dirt, but also remove germs.
