Concerns About Using Public Restrooms in Taiwan: Health Risks Explained

Please ask me your two questions?

Hello, I am a student of mixed Taiwanese and Japanese heritage.
Since returning to Taiwan before the Lunar New Year, I have been staying at my father's house.
I would like to ask the doctor about public restrooms in Taiwan, particularly in family convenience stores.
I came to Hualien and Taitung with my father's relatives, and during the trip, I might have eaten some bad flying fish, which has made my stomach feel a bit uncomfortable.
I went to buy a drink and borrowed the restroom, which is set up outside.
Although I know that there are very few bidet toilets in Taiwan, I want to ask the doctor if I could contract any diseases from using the restroom.
I did not sit directly on the toilet because it seemed like the previous user did not use it properly, so I half-squatted and flushed the toilet with my hand.
However, there was a sign in the store that I did not fully understand.
I know that smoking is not allowed, but I learned from my relatives that drug use is also prohibited.
I want to know if I could get infected or become addicted if someone was using drugs in the restroom while I was just using it...
that sounds really scary! I am not sure how to ask the doctor, and my Chinese may not be very fluent, so I hope you can help me.
Thank you.

Cheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/11

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, in Taiwan, drug use is illegal, so it is unlikely that many people would use drugs in convenience store restrooms.
The primary concern with drug use is toxicity rather than infection.
As for toilet cleanliness, I believe that as long as proper cleaning is maintained, the risk of infection should be very low.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2020/07/11

More Info

Using public restrooms can be a concern for many people, especially regarding health risks associated with potential infections. In Taiwan, public restrooms, including those in convenience stores and other establishments, are generally maintained to a reasonable standard of cleanliness. However, there are still some health risks to consider when using these facilities.

Firstly, the primary concern when using public restrooms is the risk of exposure to pathogens. Bacteria and viruses can be present on surfaces such as toilet seats, door handles, and faucets. While the risk of contracting an illness from a brief visit to a public restroom is relatively low, it is not zero. To minimize this risk, it is advisable to take some precautions:
1. Hand Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the restroom. If soap and water are not available, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be an effective alternative. This is crucial as many infections are transmitted via the hands.

2. Avoid Direct Contact: If you are concerned about cleanliness, you can avoid direct contact with toilet seats by using toilet paper or a disposable seat cover if available. In your case, since you mentioned that you half-squatted, this is a reasonable approach to minimize contact.

3. Use of Personal Items: Carrying your own sanitizing wipes can be beneficial. You can use these to wipe down surfaces you may touch, such as the toilet seat or door handles.

4. Avoid Touching Your Face: After using the restroom, avoid touching your face until you have washed your hands. This helps prevent the transfer of any pathogens that may be on your hands.

Regarding your concern about drug use in public restrooms, it is important to clarify that simply using a restroom where someone else has used drugs does not mean you will become addicted or infected. Addiction is a complex issue that involves psychological and physiological factors, and exposure to drug use in a public setting does not directly lead to addiction. However, it is wise to avoid environments where drug use is prevalent, as they may pose other risks, including exposure to illegal activities or unsafe conditions.

In summary, while there are some health risks associated with using public restrooms, practicing good hygiene and being mindful of your surroundings can significantly reduce these risks. If you continue to experience discomfort after eating, it may be wise to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any foodborne illnesses or other gastrointestinal issues. Enjoy your time in Taiwan, and remember that taking simple precautions can help keep you healthy while navigating public spaces.

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