Study examines germs that hide in pits



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(CLEVELAND CLINIC) – Ball pits are a fun way for kids to spend energy. However, according to a recent study, they are also full of germs and bacteria.

For this study, researchers tested ball pits located in various physiotherapy clinics.

They found a considerable amount of bacteria in all sites, some of which could potentially cause an infection.

"What they discovered is that a lot of bacteria can live in these bullet pits," said Frank Esper, MD, of Cleveland Clinic Children's, who was not involved in the study. "Most of the bacteria themselves were bacteria that could be expected. bacterium found on the skin of children; normally in the mouth and some of the bacteria present in the gut. There were no resistant or really dangerous bacteria. You do not find bad germs in a normal child. "

Dr. Esper said that there was a risk of exposure, especially since the researchers have been testing ball pits in clinics – while the types of pits found in the restaurant chains or community parks could potentially contain even more bacteria.

For the most part, he said that children could play safely in the ball fields. However, if a child has a compromised immune system or if he is taking medications that reduce his ability to fight off infections, precautions must be taken.

Similarly, if a child has an open wound or sore, it is best to stay outside the baseball field to avoid infection.

Dr. Esper adds that, as in any playground, good hand hygiene is essential in a ball field.

"Wash your hands before and after jumping into a pit," he said. "Understand that they will be exposed to germs in a baseball field just like they would be exposed to germs in any playground facility, and that everything is fine. Most kids who jump into a baseball field will be fine when they come out of the baseball field. "

Dr. Esper said the study shows that it is a good idea for facilities to examine the types of sterilization practices used for these activities.

The full results of the study can be found in the American Journal of Infection Control.


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