A Closer Look at E. coli — A Bacteria That Might Be on Your Wheelchair!
But did you know that regular cleaning might not be enough? Even well-maintained chairs can hide bacteria like E.coli! Surprising, isn't it? Whether you're a cleaning pro or sometimes skip it, understanding the risks of E. coli to wheelchair users is something you shouldn’t ignore. Let's explore why this bacteria matters and how to ensure your wheelchair is truly safe.
The Study of Bacteria on Wheelchairs
In a revealing study by the Paralyzed Veterans of America, researchers took a closer look at what's really living on wheelchairs. They swabbed different parts of both manual and power wheelchairs, just like the ones we use every day. What they found was eye-opening: a mix of bacteria, including bacillus and various cocci and rods, was present even on wheelchairs that were regularly cleaned.
The real surprise? They discovered gram-negative rods, a group that includes E. coli, right on the control pad of a power wheelchair! This finding is a wake-up call, indicating that regular wiping down isn't enough. These bacteria, potentially harmful, are making themselves at home in places we touch daily, highlighting the need for a deeper, more thorough cleaning approach.
The Inadequacy of Simple Cleaning
You might think your wheelchair is spotless after a regular clean, but there's more to it than meets the eye. Take E. coli, for instance. This tough bacteria, usually hanging out harmlessly in our guts, can turn into a big problem when it's in places like your wheelchair. If E.coli gets from the chair to your hands, and then to your mouth or eyes, it can lead to some pretty serious illnesses, such as:
Gastrointestinal Illnesses: E. coli can cause gastroenteritis, leading to symptoms like severe stomach cramps, diarrhoea, and vomiting. This is particularly concerning for wheelchair users, as they might come into contact with contaminated surfaces on their wheelchairs.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Some E. coli strains are a common cause of UTIs. Wheelchair users, especially those with limited mobility, may be at increased risk if hygiene practices around the wheelchair are not adequately maintained.
Respiratory Illnesses: In rare cases, E. coli can lead to respiratory issues like pneumonia. While less common, it's a potential risk if the bacteria are transferred from the hands to the mouth or nose, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome (HUS): This serious complication, often associated with the E.coli O157:H7 strain, can lead to kidney failure. It's a rare but severe condition that wheelchair users, like others, could be at risk for if exposed to this particular strain.
The Role of Deep Cleaning
After learning that regular cleaning might not get rid of all the bacteria on a wheelchair, it's clear that a more thorough approach is needed. This is where deep cleaning comes into play, reaching every nook and cranny to ensure it's actually clean.
Deep cleaning goes beyond the surface, addressing bacteria buildup and residual bacteria that normal cleaning might miss. It involves thorough cleaning of all wheelchair parts, including hard-to-reach areas and electronic components. Deep cleaning ensures the removal of harmful bacteria like E.coli, providing a safer and more hygienic environment for wheelchair users.
Pure Wheelchairs' Deep Cleaning Process
At Pure Wheelchairs, we've honed our deep cleaning process to ensure your wheelchair isn't just clean, but hygienically safe. Our method, developed with industry experts, includes:
Superheated Dry Steam Machines with Extraction: These Italian-made machines deliver steam at 170 degrees Celsius with only 5% humidity, effectively killing 99.9% of pathogens, including COVID-19. This method penetrates biofilms, which are resistant to conventional cleaning, ensuring a thorough sterilisation.
Hospital-grade Microfibre: We use professional, research-backed microfibre cloths that are superior in trapping and removing dirt and bacteria, ensuring a higher standard of cleanliness.
100% Isopropyl Alcohol for Electronics: For electronic components, we use 100% Isopropyl Alcohol, ensuring they are cleaned without damage and free from harmful bacteria.
Pure Enzyme for Regular Maintenance: We have developed the Pure One enzyme in between deep cleans, a natural eco-friendly solution that uses enzyme technology to tackle organic spills, preventing stains and odours while fighting bacteria while waiting for your next deep clean.
After our thorough deep cleaning process, the wheelchair is dry and ready for immediate use. This level of deep cleaning is crucial in mitigating the risks associated with harmful bacteria, including E. coli, providing users with a safer, cleaner wheelchair every day.
For peace of mind and a hygienically safe wheelchair, schedule your deep cleaning session with Pure Wheelchairs at http://purewheelchairs.com.au/book-online or call us at 0410 614 183 today!