London, England (AHN)-New research shows your mobile phone could be a major health hazard, crawling with potentially lethal bacteria.

According to the research, with tens of thousands of microbes living on each square inch, cell phones harbor more bacteria than a toilet seat, the sole of a shoe, or a door handle.

Microbiologists say the combination of constant handling and the heat generated by the phones creates a prime breeding ground for all sorts of bugs that are normally found on our skin.

They include Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause illnesses from pimples and boils to pneumonia and meningitis and is a close relative of the superbug MRSA.

Joanna Verran, professor of microbiology at Manchester Metropolitan University, tells the Daily Mail, "Mobile phones are stored in bags or pockets, are handled frequently and held close to the face.

Verran goes on to say, "In other words, they come into contact with more parts of our body and a wider range of bacteria than toilet seats. The phones contained more skin bacteria than any other object. This could be due to the fact that this type of bacteria increase in high temperatures and our phones are perfect for breeding these germs as they are kept warm and cozy in pockets, handbags and briefcases."