Biology Prof. Norman Pace at the University of Colorado, Boulder recently investigated the buildup of potentially harmful microbes in shower heads across the country. He concluded that the concentration of these bacteria is 100 times the natural level found in water and soil. This means that every time you turn on the shower, you may be introducing into your bathroom huge amounts of the pathogens mycobacterium avium and mycobacterium gordonae, which are associated with lung infections. Those who are immunocompromised - such as those fighting off disease, pregnant women and the elderly - are at the highest risk of developing pulmonary disease from ingesting these pathogens. The two best ways to reduce this effect are to use a metal shower head with a filter and change it regularly or to leave the room for a short time after turning on the shower to allow the initial burst of the microbes to pass.
-compiled by Kate Singleton
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