Chicagoist: These Aren't Your Mother's Germs

Mo

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 08:28:49 -0600

Guest 5, I used to work in a research lab, and I worked with one guy, the head of the team actually, who would wear his latex gloves INTO THE BATHROOM, and when he came out of the bathroom, he was still wearing his gloves. And then would go back to work!!! That is not only disgusting, but I can't see how in the world he did not both infect himself and contaminate the specimens. And I totally agree with you about the doctor ego. Guest 6, the flu is a virus. Its "evolution" and susceptibility to your immune system is not the same as that for bacteria. Purell and other alcohol and triclosan based antibacterial agents don't kill viruses, so they don't create superviruses, nor do they suppress your immunity to them. So when the flu comes around like it did in 1918, it will wipe you out just as easily as it will people who abuse antibacterials. I do agree that triclosan is being overused to an alarming degree, and it does lead to resistant strains of bacteria. There is no need for it in toothpaste, tissues, or hand lotions. But, still, antibacterials do have a time and place. In fact, "a little bacteria" actually can kill you. Just look at all the people who die from hospital-borned staph, and contrary to belief, not all of those staph infections are drug-resistant. Just everyday staph around a surgical wound can cause serious problems.

guest

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 00:53:30 -0600

Germophobes are driving us to extinction with their germ-killing soaps and gels and lotions. They are creating more and more resistant bugs, superbugs that will wipe us out. Come on, people. A little bacteria won't kill you. When the superflu comes, I guarantee the victims' hands will smell of Purell.

guest

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 18:42:45 -0600

I work in a hospital and I see med students and doctors wear their white coats everywhere--from the bathroom to the patients to the cafeteria. Disgusting. If only some of them could drop their egos and status (because, in general, I think that's what it is--look at me, I'm a doctor!), and take off their coats outside the clinic, this world would be a healthier (and safer) place.

guest

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 17:01:29 -0600

You know what this post could use? More links!

guest

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 16:36:43 -0600

Funny he got caught.

guest

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 16:34:42 -0600

Great video of city worker loafing all day. http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=3015909396413573331

guest

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 14:12:25 -0600

haha that's great! do you think any of them will be liveblogging from the conference? thanks for sharing!