plumbersIf we don't nip this unseen bacteria (BUT ITS EVERYWHERE!) hysteria in the bud it will cause a whole lot of neurotic behavior in our country. If you become obsessed with sterilization, you will be creating a powerful new environment for bacteria. Stop at your local plumbers business one day and ask the owner about the health of plumbers (its good and stronger than most).
plumbersBingo. 20 years of living in Asia has taught me two things about common bacteria and viruses: 1) Locals don't get sick nearly as much as foreigners. I assume because they have built up a tolerance. 2) Foreigners don't get sick nearly as often or as seriously as one would think they would going strictly by the bacteria count on food containers, local (un)sanitary practices and all that. The numbers don't translate to nearly as serious a problem as so many articles and researchers suggest.
My dad grew up during the depression and he stays about 99.9 healthy from colds, flu and such. He grew up in very unsanitary conditions. I believe he could survive E-bola and anthrax.