The “everyday things” that can spread infection and contamination in a family
| Micro-organism | Source of infection | Disease |
| Respiratory bacteria
Respiratory viruses |
Drinking glasses; water bottles; toothbrushes, eating utensils
Herpesviruses Epstein-Barr virus |
Strep throat;
pertussis (whooping cough); common cold; flu; ear infections; pinkeye; sinus infections, pneumonia.
Cold sores. “Mono”. |
| Gastrointestinal bacteria
Gastrointestinal viruses |
Sinks; toilets; toilet seats | Gastroenteritis (stomach flu) |
| Viruses
Fungi |
Shower stall | Plantar warts
Athlete’s foot; jock itch. |
| Fungi | Hair brushes; combs; hats; sport and bike helmets.
Insects |
Ringworm of the scalp
Head lice |
| Herpesviruses | Wrestling mats | Herpes gladiatorium |
| Molluscipoxvirus
Skin bacteria Genital bacteria Gastrointestinal bacteria Gastrointestinal viruses Fungi Parasites Insects |
Laundry | Molluscum contagiosum skin rash
Skin infections Syphilis, gonorrhea Gastroenteritis (stomach flu) Gastroenteritis (stomach flu) Ringworm Pinworms Scabies ; bed bugs |
| Viruses | Razor blades (faces or leg) | HIV infections/AIDS ;
Hepatitis B ; Hepatitis C. |
Fonte: H.Rotbart – “Germ Proof your kids”.
