Beware of germs in toys and books
It is scientifically established that the bacteria that causes colds, ear infections, sore throat, lung infections, etc. do not survive outside the human body for long. However, recent studies done at University of Buffalo and published in Infection and Immunity shows that Streptococcus pneumonia and Streptococcus pyogenes do survive for longer periods than has been appreciated.
The findings suggest that additional precautions may be necessary to prevent infections, especially in schools, day care centres, hospitals, crèches, etc.
Streptococcus pneumonia is a leading cause of ear infections in children. It is also a leading cause of morbidity and mortality from respiratory tract infections in children and the elderly. And in developing countries Streptococcus pneumonia often leads to pneumonia and sepsis, killing around one million children every year.
The researchers found that in day care centre, four of the five stuffed toys tested positive for Streptococcus pneumonia and several surfaces such as cribs, tested positive for Streptococcus pyogenes, even after being cleaned. The test was done just prior to the centres opening in the morning so it had been many hours since the last human contact.
Parents with small children who get repeated infections should keep in mind that it may be the contaminated toys which are the cause for it, and take necessary precautions.
Dr. Ajay Sati.
