The misunderstanding about bacteria is shown by the fact that 42 per cent believe society's health would improve if all bacteria were eradicated. Some 67 per cent also believe bacteria are dangerous, but many appear not to understand that they can be beneficial and that life on earth would not exist without them.
Professor Ken Jones, an immunologist at Cardiff School of Health Sciences, said the study demonstrates the germ warfare that could be damaging children's immune systems.
Prof Jones said: "With the huge media attention around dangerous bacteria such as MRSA, the marketing hype pushing total annihilation of bacteria via wipes or sprays, coupled with the dangerous reliance on antibiotics for almost any infection, there is a real concern that we are misunderstanding bacteria and the vital role some bacteria can play in our overall health and wellbeing and the development of our young."
The scientist also argues that the lifestyle of today's society is increasingly damaging immune systems. He said: "The Playstation generation no longer play outside with plenty of other kids as they used to. We live in smaller families and in less rural locations. All these factors mean children are less exposed to the variety of bacteria they used to be, which is crucial to develop the immune system."
His advice is to strike a balance between cleanliness and obsessiveness, encourage children to play outside with their friends, ensure they know to wash their hands and encourage them to eat plenty of fruit and vegetables - preferably organic.
The immunologist, in common with others in his profession, also believes antibiotic use should be limited, especially within the first year of life. He said: "There is a reason your doctor does not immediately prescribe antibiotics and you shouldn't pressurise them to.
"If you or your children do have to take antibiotics, then it is important to restore the balance of good bacteria."
People can also take a daily probiotic to boost the immune system, he said.
September 2007
•ICM Research, which conducted the survey for Yakult, interviewed a random sample of 1,006 adults aged 18 and over by phone earlier this month.
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