Bacteria Tesing in The Home or Office

Each of us has from 10,000 to 100,000 billion bacteria on our skin, throat, the surface of the intestine, etc. These bacteria belong to more than 400 different species. The digestive tract, in particular, contains enormous amounts of bacteria. Most do not cause infection because the body is equipped with ways to fight off invasion (antibodies, secretions of mucous, macrophages, etc.) and constantly eliminates them. Sometimes, however, certain microbes are more pathogenic or our defenses are not strong enough. Microbes that are benign for healthy individuals may be dangerous for people with health conditions that put them at risk (immunosuppression, organ transplant, malnutrition, premature birth, etc.). Bacteria are often neglected when conducting indoor air quality assesments. Homes should be checked for at least coliforms and E. coli bacteria (all associated with fecal material), which usually are present because of flooding or black-water (sewage backup). The tests are simple and fast and provide peace of mind.