Oddly, I actually enjoyed hearing the results of this study. I think it’s good for people to learn about the reality of humanity’s relationship, and constant exposure, to bacteria. It’s not “bad” just because it’s bacteria, folks.

In fact, there is some concern that the deluge of antibacterial products sold today may have more negative side-effects than positive. For one, the products may lead to the evolution of bacteria resistant to antibacterial formulations. The use of such products may also increase the frequency of allergies in children because the kids are not exposed adequately to naturally occurring bacteria.

Excerpt:

There are some things it is better just not to think about. Like the 10,000 bacteria you inhale with each breath in the average office building. Or the 10 million bacteria in each glass of tap water. Microbiologists have now added something else to the list of things too gross to contemplate: the deluge of bacteria that hit your face and flow deep into your lungs in the morning shower.

via Bathing, but Not Alone – NYTimes.com.