Health, Safety and Environment
The Health, Safety and Environment Team at The Citizen Newspaper recently came across a valuable public health article circulating on Sudanese social media, written by the Sudanese physician Dr. Abdullah Abu Talib.
Recognizing the importance of its message, the editorial team carefully reviewed the article and prepared this publication-ready edition by refining the language, verifying the scientific information against current public health guidance, and incorporating additional technical recommendations. These editorial enhancements include advice on closing the toilet lid before flushing, proper storage of personal hygiene items, adequate bathroom ventilation, and the importance of correctly venting both Western-style flush toilets and traditional squat toilets, which are commonly found in Sudanese homes.
The original health message and authorship remain those of Dr. Abdullah Abu Talib, while the editorial additions reflect The Citizen Newspaper’s Health, Safety and Environment Team’s commitment to providing readers with practical, evidence-based health information relevant to Sudanese communities and international public health standards.
A Citizen Doctor’s Message
Close the Toilet Lid… Protect Your Family’s Health
Simple Habits That Make a Big Difference
By Dr. Abdullah Abu Talib
Sudanese Physician
Good health often begins with the simplest daily habits. While most people pay attention to visible dirt, modern science reminds us that some of the greatest health risks are invisible to the naked eye.
One example is the phenomenon known as the “toilet plume.” Scientific studies have shown that flushing a toilet can generate microscopic droplets and aerosols that may carry microorganisms into the surrounding air. These tiny particles can settle on nearby surfaces such as sinks, countertops, towels, and toothbrushes,especially when the toilet lid is left open during flushing.
For this reason, public health professionals recommend several simple yet highly effective preventive measures:
Close the toilet lid before flushing whenever possible.
Store toothbrushes away from the toilet and allow them to air dry between uses.
Keep the bathroom properly ventilated.
Clean frequently touched bathroom surfaces regularly.
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after every visit to the toilet.
These recommendations are not intended to create fear or unnecessary anxiety. The likelihood of infection depends on many factors, including the type of microorganisms present, ventilation, hygiene practices, and the health status of household members. Nevertheless, these simple precautions can significantly improve household hygiene and reduce unnecessary exposure to microorganisms.
From an Islamic perspective, cleanliness has always been regarded as an essential part of daily life. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught proper etiquette when entering and leaving the toilet and encouraged believers to maintain cleanliness and personal hygiene. These teachings continue to promote habits that support both individual well-being and public health.
A Note for Sudanese Homes
In Sudan, two common types of toilets are widely used, the Western-style flush toilet and the traditional squat toilet. Regardless of their design, both should be connected to a properly ventilated drainage system through a soil vent pipe (vent stack).
A correctly installed vent pipe safely releases sewer gases above the roof, maintains proper air pressure within the drainage system, protects the water seals in plumbing traps, minimizes unpleasant odours, and contributes to a healthier indoor environment. Poorly ventilated sanitation systems can result in foul odours, drainage problems, and, in some circumstances, the accumulation of potentially hazardous sewer gases inside buildings.
Whether a home is equipped with a Western-style toilet or a traditional squat toilet, good plumbing design, proper ventilation, routine maintenance, and sound hygiene practices are all essential components of a healthy home.
Closing the toilet lid before flushing may seem like a very small action, yet simple habits often have the greatest impact. Combined with regular handwashing, routine cleaning, and adequate ventilation, this practice helps create a healthier home environment.
Healthy homes are built through everyday choices. Protecting your family’s health may begin with something as simple as closing the toilet lid before flushing.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Handwashing, Clean Hands Save Lives.
World Health Organization (WHO). Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH).
Johnson DL, Lynch RA, Marshall C, et al. Aerosol Generation by Modern Flush Toilets. American Journal of Infection Control, 2013.
Best EL, Sandoe JAT, Wilcox MH. Potential for Aerosolization of Clostridioides difficile after Flushing Toilets. Journal of Hospital Infection, 2012.
Editor’s Note
This article is based on an original public health message by Dr. Abdullah Abu Talib. The version published by The Citizen Newspaper has been professionally edited and expanded by the Health, Safety and Environment Team to incorporate current scientific evidence, improve clarity, and include practical recommendations relevant to Sudanese households while maintaining the spirit and purpose of the original article.