Since the onset of the COVID pandemic in 2020, the factors that can increase the spread of Sars-Cov-2 have been studied widely. As the virus continues to spread and mutate every other month, there is still a vast scope for research to define causes that are still enabling the spread of the Sars-Cov-2 virus.
One such widespread practice that was yet to be associated with the risk of getting COVID is nose picking. However, a recent study by researchers from Amsterdam UMC has associated nose picking with an increased risk of contracting a SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Findings of the Study
The researchers surveyed 219 Dutch Health Care Workers (HCW) to gain a perspective regarding behavioural aspects like nose picking or wearing glasses that can increase the likelihood of contracting COVID-19. To maintain the credibility of the findings, the HCWs had to follow all COVID-appropriate measures diligently, such as sanitising, maintaining social distancing, and wearing a PPE kit whenever near patients.
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The study revealed that SARS-CoV-2 incidence was found to be higher in HCWs that reported frequent nose-picking than in participants who refrained from nose-picking. The study found no association between nail-biting, wearing glasses, or having a beard and the incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
The study also called for an increase in research to assess everyday behaviours that boost the spread of Sars-Cov-2 by stating, “It is surprising to observe the extensiveness in which the scientific community (including our own study team) has researched all sorts of SARS-CoV-2 transmission routes, risk factors and protective measures; yet assessing the role of simple behavioural and physical properties has so far been overlooked.”
How Does Nose-Picking Increase Chances of Getting COVID?
Commenting on the study by Dutch researchers, Dr Sheetal Radia, ENT & Head Neck Surgeon, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, told the team of OnlyMyHealth, “Nose picking can inadvertently increase the risk of contracting not only COVID-19 but many other viruses, due to its potential to introduce the virus into the body. The SARS-CoV-2 virus primarily enters the body through the respiratory tract, including the nose. When people pick their noses with unwashed hands, they may transfer the virus from their contaminated fingers into the nasal passages.”
She added, “The virus can survive on surfaces for a certain period, and contaminated hands could have come into contact with infected surfaces or respiratory droplets.”
Also Read: Role Of Personal Hygiene: From Combating COVID-19 To Keeping You Healthy
Dr Radia further informed that nose picking can lead to microscopic cuts or irritations in the nasal lining, providing an entry point for the virus. Moreover, nose picking may inadvertently cause the person to touch their face more, increasing the likelihood of transferring the virus to the mouth or eyes.
Protect yourself from Sars-Cov-2 Infection
To reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, Dr Sheetal Radia advised that it's crucial to practice good hand hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water, avoiding touching the face and refraining from nose picking. Although studies are still lacking in this arena, it is fairly obvious that fidgeting with the parts of your body that have a direct transmission route for the COVID virus, especially the nasal tract, must be avoided as much as possible.
