Baby and Child Health

KEY MESSAGE

• Microbial exposure, including farm contacts and playing in the dirt has been shown to have potential benefits by promoting immune tolerance and which may reduce the risk of developing allergies and asthma
• Don’t completely ditch hygeine measures – It is important to be aware of the potential risks such as toxin producing E. coli from farm contacts, or tetanus risk from wounds contaminated with soil

germs are bad..AREN’t THEY?

As parents, we often worry about protecting our children from germs and maintaining a clean environment. However there is evidence to suggest some exposure to microbes, including farm exposure may have health benefits by reducing rates of asthma, hayfever, and allergies in children.

THE HYGEINE HYPOTHESIS

The “hygiene hypothesis” is a theory that suggests that reduced exposure to microbes early in life may increase the risk of developing atopy. A related theory, “the old friends hypothesis” suggests that humans have co-evolved with “friendly” microbes to train our immune system.

Atopy can be described as a tendency towards developing allergies and being more prone to related conditions such as asthma, eczema and hayfever

According to these hypotheses, exposure to a diverse range of microbes, especially during early childhood, helps to educate and modulate the immune system, promoting a balanced and healthy immune response. This exposure is thought to play a crucial role in the development of immune tolerance and prevention of immune overreactions – that can lead to allergies

LIVING ON A FARM

Farm exposure, especially in non-industrialised farms, has been associated with a lower risk of atopy and asthma. For example, studies conducted on children living in traditional Amish farming communities versus those living on industrialised farms have shown significantly lower rates of asthma (5.2% versus 23%) and atopy (7.2% versus 33.3%); a study of german children living on farms have shown lower rates of asthma compared to the general population.

SO SHOULD I LET MY CHILD GO WILD AND PLAY IN THE GUTTERS AND FARM?

1. Balance is key: While some microbial exposure may be beneficial, it’s important to strike a balance and not go to extremes. Overexposure to certain microbes or pathogens in the environment can increase the risk of infections and other health risks. It’s important to ensure that children are exposed to a diverse range of microbes, but not exposed to harmful pathogens or toxins.
2. Practice proper hygiene after contact: Even though playing in the dirt and being exposed to microbes can be beneficial, it’s important after play to practice proper hygiene to minimize the risk of infections. Encourage your child to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after playing in the dirt or coming into contact with farm animals or other potentially contaminated surfaces. Avoid eating or drinking while playing in the dirt, and prevent (or realistically speaking minimise) them putting their hands or objects contaminated with dirt or soil into their mouth.
3. Be mindful of infection risks: Farm animals, soil, and other natural elements can sometimes carry harmful pathogens, including toxin producing stains of E. coli, which can pose a risk, especially for young children with developing immune systems. If visiting a farm follow hygiene practices after petting animals
4. Consider individual factors: It’s important to consider your child’s age and health status when deciding on the appropriate level of microbial exposure and farm contact. Children with certain health conditions, such as immunodeficiency may need to take extra precautions or avoid certain exposures. It’s always best to consult with your child’s healthcare provider for personalized guidance based on their specific health needs.

MICROBES AS MEDICINE – BACTERIAL LYSATES AND THEIR POTENTIAL ROLE

Bacterial lysates are products derived from the outer shells or cell walls of bacteria that have been broken down into smaller fragments. These lysates are thought to mimic the effects of microbial exposure by providing a harmless form of microbial components that can stimulate the immune system and promote immune tolerance.

While bacterial lysates such have show promising results in some studies, it’s important to note that they are still areas of ongoing research, and more studies are needed to better understand their usefulness and risks in real life.