You probably know that if you download a strange app or open attachments from emails or texts from an unknown sender, your phone may end up with a bug — a malicious computer virus that disrupts all kinds of functions.

But are you aware that your phone can download a bug onto you?

Current research suggests that smartphones harbor a potentially harmful cocktail of bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

An analysis published in the journal Travel Medicine and Infectious Disease looked at 56 studies from 24 countries and found that nearly all of them identified potential invaders on phones; 16 reported the presence of fungi, and others identified RNA viruses and bacteria such as S. aureus (which can cause staph infections) and E. coli.

In fact, the lead researcher said phones are a "five-star hotels with premium heated spas [and a] free buffet for microbes to thrive on."

Although there was no research aimed at detecting SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) on phones, we know from other sources that the bug can live on plastic for up to three days. 

No wonder the researchers suggest you consider your phone a "third hand," and sanitize it regularly.

It’s smart to clean phones with hand sanitizer or a sanitizing wipe after you use it outdoors or in the car; then wash your hands.

Also clean it after you put it down on any surface outside your home.

Home all day? Clean it once a day. Then you'll have the kind of phone reception you want: all clear.