Irish citizens have been warned against a ‘Hygiene Hangover’ as seasonal viruses circulate and norovirus reaches high levels in Ireland.

A ‘Hygiene Hangover’ is the gradual slip back into inconsistent or poor hygiene habits as any New Year reset of health begins to face.

Initial Hygiene conducted swabbing research and found that gym bags are a particular area of concern. One in three bags tested recorded elevated bacterial readings, with more than a quarter classified as having high levels of biological contamination.

The findings of the swabbing research indicate that everyday personal items, when not cleaned regularly, can quickly harbour significant levels of microbial contamination.

Speaking on the findings of the study, Colm Moore, Regional Technical Manager at Initial Hygiene, said: ‘shared and close-contact environments create ideal conditions for the spread of bacteria and viruses.’

He highlighted items like gym bags and phones as being common vehicles for cross-contamination.

In order to decrease your chances of contracting a seasonal bug, Moore advised people to ‘regularly wash and dry your hands using warm water and soap, fully covering your palms, the backs of your hands, between your fingers and under nails, followed by a thorough rinse.’

Initial Hygiene encourages both organisations and individuals to regularly review hygiene protocols, keep facilities well stocked and maintained, and reinforce effective hand hygiene practices, especially during the peak period of seasonal illnesses.

Taking these proactive steps supports healthier workplaces and safer public spaces alike.