The risks of picking up infection are low but if you come into contact with them, harmful micro organisms can enter the body easily through hand-to-mouth or hand-to-food contact.

A few simple precautions can reduce these risks significantly

• Use toilet paper to wipe up accidental spills and drips.
• Lower the toilet lid before flushing to help prevent germs being ejected onto nearby surfaces.
• Make sure you wash your hands with warm, soapy water after using the toilet.