VERIFY: Can you get a staph infection from your smartwatch?

CLEVELAND — Since smartwatches and fitness watches hit the market, many have learned the hard way that they have to be routinely cleaned, especially for those who have sensitive skin. 

Videos and pictures are being posted all over social media and in Apple and Samsung community forums from people sharing their experience with fungal infections, skin infections, rashes, abrasions, dermatitis and more.  

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Can you get a staph infection from your smartwatch? We wanted to VERIFY.

• A study in Advances in Infectious Diseases from Florida Atlantic University
• Medline from the National Library of Medicine. 

Even smartwatch makers advise the importance of routine cleaning of the watch and its band. Apple advises using alcohol or disinfecting wipes. 

Researchers from Florida Atlantic University tested 20 different types of watch bands and published their findings in Advances in Infectious Diseases. 

They found 95% of the bands were contaminated with some form of dangerous bacteria, while 85% contained staph, and 60% had E.coli. 

According to Medline plus from the National Library of Medicine, skin infections are the most common type of staph infections. Many people carry staph on their skin, the bacteria enters the body through a cut or wound and may potentially be deadly if it leads to blood poisoning, known as sepsis. 

Most people wear their smartwatches 24/7. The study found bacteria buildup appeared highest in those who worked out.

The highest bacteria counts were found on rubber and plastic wrist bands, while the lowest were on metal.

Researchers found Lysol and Heinz Apple Cider Vinegar lowered bacteria counts. 

Can you get a staph infection from your smartwatch?  If you’re not routinely cleaning it, you develop a rash that allows the bacteria to enter your system. So yes, it’s possible. 

If you develop a rash from your watch, keep it off until the rash heals. Make sure you don’t keep the band too tight, allow air to circulate. If the rash appears to be infected, seek medical attention.