KIGALI- Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan, a Biomedical scientist and public health expert, has reassured the public that the multi-rider exchange of motorcycle helmets does not pose a public health risk that could lead to an outbreak or epidemic. By: Ingoma Mbonyi, Contributing writer Dr.
Nyan, a renowned infectious diseases specialist and inventor, made this clarification recently on Truth and OK FM- two separate radio stations in Paynesville and central Monrovia while serving as a guest. During the conversation, he emphasized that the primary public health concern regarding helmet use is the prevention of head injuries such as lacerations, concussions, or fractures that could occur during a motorcycle accident. The health experts stated that the microorganisms found on shared helmets pose no specific public health risk to warrant panic.
“The microbes like Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and some common fungi species found on shared helmets by multiple riders are the same regular organisms found on your house door knobs, on the car door handle, on our bodies, on studio microphones and headphones, and all around our homes, offices, or school environments; they pose no particular public health risk and warrant no panic,” said Dr. Nyan. He also noted that in countries like Rwanda, Kenya, Ghana, and some Asian countries, where helmet use is common, there has been no documented scientific report of disease spread or public health risks due to helmet sharing.
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