Bacterial Load of Virtual Reality Headsets

Abstract

As commodity virtual reality (VR) systems become more common, they are rapidly gaining popularity for entertainment, education, and training purposes. VR utilizes headsets which come in contact with or close proximity to the user's eyes, nose, and forehead. In this study, the potential for these headsets to become contaminated with bacteria was analyzed. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to address the potential for microorganisms to be transmitted via VR headsets. The data discussed herein were collected roughly one year prior to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States. We feel it is important to be clear that this study focuses exclusively on bacteria, as opposed to viruses like those responsible for the present pandemic.