A stark warning has been issued about the health risks of wearing outdoor shoes inside the home, highlighting the potential for harmful bacteria and dangerous chemicals to contaminate living spaces.
NHS GP Dr Amir Khan shared his concerns in a TikTok video that has garnered more than 125,300 views, explaining why he removes his footwear immediately upon entering his house.
"If you are anything like me, you take off your shoes as soon as you get into the house," Dr Khan said in the viral video.
"It's a sign of respect if you are in someone else's house, but also it can reduce the risk of bugs and chemicals being traced around your home."
E.coli has been linked to stomach infections and urinary tract infections
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The GP highlighted that E.coli poses a particularly serious threat, as it represents Britain's most prevalent cause of urinary tract and bloodstream infections, which can prove fatal.
Dr Khan explained that outdoor footwear can collect dangerous bacteria because animals defecate and urinate outside.
"So, things like E.coli, which have been linked to stomach infections and urinary tract infections, can be brought in through our shoes," he warned.
Beyond bacterial contamination, shoes can introduce allergens into homes.
"Pollen, dust and mould" can all be tracked indoors on footwear, Dr Khan noted, creating problems for residents suffering from hay fever or allergies.
The doctor cautioned that footwear worn in recreational areas may carry additional hazards.
"If you've been walking in parks (or) old golf courses, there could be lots of pesticide chemicals on your shoes too," he stated.
Whilst acknowledging that small amounts of these chemicals aren't immediately dangerous, Dr Khan stressed the importance of keeping them away from food preparation areas.
"Now, in small doses they are not harmful at all, but you don't want them in your house where you are going to be preparing food," he explained.
His recommendation was straightforward: "So, take your shoes off, leave your cat, and put some indoor slippers on."
The video sparked a strong reaction from viewers, with hundreds expressing their strict household footwear policies.
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Footwear worn in recreational areas may carry hazards
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"I hate it when people just walk in with shoes all over my carpet," one social media user wrote in response to Dr Khan's advice.
Another viewer was equally firm about their rules: "Always make other people take their shoes off as they enter my home."
A third commenter revealed the lengths they go to protect their flooring: "No one gets in my house with shoes on. I have an off-white carpet right through the house."
The widespread agreement with Dr Khan's guidance reflects growing awareness of indoor hygiene practices across British households.
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