That's disgusting: Nail biting

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Can’t keep your hands occupied during a boring class? You may want to stick to the Sudoku or try to crack that crossword. Whatever you do, don’t gnaw on your nails. Biting your fingernails doesn’t just result in unsightly digits—it also offers bacteria an easy road from your hands to your mouth.

“Bacteria love to grow under fingernails,” says Student Health Services coordinator Jenny McKee. “All sorts of stuff can get caught up in there when you are answering phones, touching door handles or just being in public spaces.”

McKee says the area beneath fingernails is a very protective place, and thus a great environment for bacteria to hide and multiply. According to a study published in the 2008 Journal of Oral Microbiology and Immunology, chronic nail-biters are three times more likely to carry harmful bacteria in their mouths than people who don’t bite their nails. Aside from the common cold or flu, hand-to-mouth contact can lead to the transportation of more serious infections such as pinworms.

For those who just can’t help the habit, McKee recommends taking extra care when it comes to hand washing. If water and soap aren’t readily available, instant hand sanitizer or fingernail brushes can help keep bacteria at bay.

Student Health Services plans to host hand washing events in on-campus dining halls to educate students about the importance of proper hygiene as flu season approaches.

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