Antibiotics can treat an infection caused by a virus (like Flu or the common cold)
FALSE.
Antibiotics should only be used to treat an infection caused by a bacteria (sinus infection).
Antibacterial hand soaps are better for everyday hand washing than plain soap and water
FALSE.
Plain soap and water are effective for everyday handwashing. Hand soap that contains an antibiotic is unnecessary for routine hand washing and should be avoided as the antibiotic ends up in the environment contributing to antibiotic resistance.
All bacteria are bad
FALSE.
Healthy microbiomes have a vast diversity of microbes, which promotes health and fights disease.
My home should be germ free
FALSE.
“Germ” is a colloquial term for microbes. Microbes are everywhere and trying to eliminate them often eliminates diversity allowing for ‘bad’ or pathogenic microbes to proliferate increasing the risk of making people sick.
The microbiome only affects digestion
FALSE.
There is scientific evidence linking microbiome composition to brain function and immune response.
We understand most of the environmental microbes in the world
FALSE.
It is estimated that approximately 99% are not yet known.
Stronger cleaning chemicals create healthier environments
FALSE.
Stronger cleaning chemicals can result in proliferation of bad microbes and promote antimicrobial resistance.
Ventilating buildings bring in dangerous "germs"
FALSE.
Ventilation of indoor spaces promotes dilution, diversity and balance.
Pets make indoor environments dirtier
FALSE.
Pets promote diversity and have been shown to improve immunity in healthy individuals.
New buildings have healthier microbiological profiles than older buildings
FALSE.
Newer buildings often have synthetic materials, are more air-tight, and don’t “breathe”, which can result in stagnant air, increased humidity, and “sick building syndrome”.
All indoor microbiomes are the same
FALSE.
Indoor microbial populations are influenced by many factors, including climate, seasons, occupancy, and use.
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