Topic.18 Shower

[partrita]

Scientists have found that taking a shower might not be so good for
you. New research from the University of Colorado has found there can
be a build-up of harmful bacteria in showerheads. Researchers said the
very first jets of water from the shower are the most dangerous. The
shower acts like an aerosol, spraying the bacteria into the air.



This means having a daily shower may not be as hygienic as we think.
Scientists tested 50 different showers across nine US cities. They
discovered that a third of these had very high levels of bacteria that
can cause lung damage. Researcher Laura Baumgartner advised: “For most
people, the answer is simple. Don’t stand in front of the shower when
the first blast comes out."



The research is part of a wider project that is looking at our daily
environment. In particular, the research team is looking at the
microbiology of water and air in schools, homes and public buildings.
Research into the bathroom environment provided interesting results.
Ms. Baumgartner said showers were more dangerous than baths because
they act like aerosol sprays.



Showerheads are much harder to clean than baths because they are
enclosed. Furthermore, it is easier for us to inhale the bacteria into
our lungs because of the steam in the shower. Baumgartner did say we
should not be too concerned about her discovery: "I take showers every
day, and I’m not at all worried," she said.





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1. What other dangers do you think there might be in showering?

2. Will this article make you shower differently?

3. Taking a shower too often washes away the skin’s necessary oils? Do
you think this is bad for us?

4. Do you prefer to take a shower in the morning or evening? Why?

5. Do you think there are too many studies that tell us what is bad
for us?

6. Are we becoming too worried about safety?

7. What would life be like without baths and showers