Use of pacifiers could lead to very sick babies, study finds

Oklahoma State University researchers report that they have found a wide range of disease-causing bacteria, fungus and mold on pacifiers that young children had been using.

In research presented at the American Society for Clinical Pathology, scientists have shown that pacifiers can also grow a slimy coating of bacterial film that alters the normal bacteria in a baby or toddler's mouth, increasing the likelihood of colic and ear infections. It gets worse, according to study author Tom Glass, a professor of forensic science, pathology and dental medicine: The same types of bacteria found on a common pacifier have been linked to cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, allergies, asthma and autoimmune diseases.

HealthDay reporters Barbara Bronson Gray writes that Glass said the problems associated with pacificers are also applicable to any removable orthodontic appliance like retainers, mouth guards and dentures. Glass said his researchers were particular concerned about their findings when they discovered that "many of the bacteria growing from the used pacifiers were resistant to commonly used antibiotics such as penicillin and methicillin. The development of such resistance to certain antibiotics does not cause the organism to be more infectious than other strains that have no antibiotic resistance, but it can make the infection more difficult to treat." Glass told Gray that he does not recommend that pacifier use. use. "After doing the study, I say why take a risk?" (Read more)

270 U of L freshmen have to vacate dorm because of mold

The University of Louisville has told 270 freshmen they have to move out in the middle of midterm exams after high levels of mold were found in their residence hall. The students were told remove everything they brought with them to Miller Hall. The dorm will be closed the rest of the semester. Those displaced are being moved to other dorms, university-affiliated housing and hotel rooms near campus.

U of L inspections found high levels of two types of mold spores, aspergillus and penicillium, that don’t normally present a threat but could affect people with allergies, asthma and upper respiratory problems if exposed to high levels in closed spaces, said Dr. Phillip Bressoud, director of student health. More residence halls could also have a mold problem, and the university is still awaiting the results from tests. Staten said. (Read more)

Storm victims need to be vigilant about avoiding tetanus and mold, and protecting food safety

As storm and and flood cleanup continues, Kentuckians need to be vigilant about tetanus, mold and food safety, the state Department for Public Health warns.

Regarding tetanus, the DPH recommends avoiding contact with flood waters, which can be a risk for contracting the disease for people who have open wounds.

Mold can develop in homes that have been flooded, but air conditioners or dehumidifiers can help prevent mold growth, the DPH advises. When cleaning affected areas, wear safety goggles, rubber boots and waterproof gloves. In areas of heavy mold growth, a respirator or suitable mask is advised.

The DPH recommends removing all items that have been wet for more than 48 hours and cannot be dried or cleaned. Mold can be removed from hard surfaces using cleaners, soap and water or a bleach solution of no more than 1 cup of bleach in 1 gallon of water. Severe cases should be cleaned by experts.

When it comes to food safety, a full freezer will keep its temperature for 48 hours. A freezer that is half full will maintain its temperature for 24 hours. Refrigerated foods are safe as long as the power is not out for more than four hours. Any perishable food that has been above 40 degree for more than two hours should be discarded.

Freezer and refrigerators should be cleaned with a solution of 2 tablespoons baking soda dissolved in 1 quart of warm water. (Read more)