The Healthcare Side

With the current increase of antimicrobial based soaps in the commercial market, health officials have increasing concerns that too much germ-fighting power could be hazardous to our health.  More specifically, that this new constant widespread exposure could possibly generate a strain of resistant bacteria, causing the antibacterial cleansing agents used in clinical settings to lose its effectiveness.
Researchers have conducted studies utilizing E. coli bacterium to test such hypothesis, and have confirmed that although a resistant bacteria has not yet been found, that the possibility of generating such a bacteria is more likely than previously speculated.  It is strongly urged by health care officials and researchers to practice caution in the personal use of such agents.  Increased use of such products causes infection control agencies to be on a heightened alert, constantly looking out for any changes in the organisms these agents are designed to guard against.  Researcher also urge education in this matter.
 People need to understand the difference between the two widely marketed products; antibacterial and anitmicrobial based products.  Antibacterial only guard against bacterial infections while antimicrobials guard against many forms of infections to include bacterial infections.  It is stated that washing for vigorously in warm water for at least 10 seconds with regular soap is sufficient for even health care workers.  By following proper hand washing procedures, chances of over-exposure to antimicrobial and antibacterial based cleansing products would be greatly reduced.  Furthermore, healthcare officials strongly urge the use of antimicrobial soaps when caring for newborns, patients in high risk units, and severely immunocompromised patients.