International Scientific Forum on Home Hygiene

Home Hygiene & Health

The Leading Source of Scientific, Professional & Consumer Information
International Scientific Forum on Home Hygiene

Home Hygiene & Health

The Leading Source of Scientific, Professional & Consumer Information

Module 9

Do we need exposure to harmful germs to keep our immune system strong?

A popular notion is that clean modern lifestyles may be weakening the immune system, making us less able to fight infectious diseases.

Although acquiring a normal body microbiota during, and in the first months after, birth is critical, to developing the immune system. This does not mean that “regular” infections during childhood and adulthood keep our immune system “strong” and boost our immunity to infection.

People tend to assume that regular exposure to dirt and germs is important for children to build up a strong immune system to fight infection.

Because immunity through antibodies is specific (flu antibodies only protect against flu) the idea that – the more harmful, germs we encounter the “stronger” our immune system – is flawed.  However, in recent years evidence has begun to emerge that exposure to an infection can protect against other unrelated infections.

Some recent evidence suggests that some pathogens (if you survive them) may somewhat increase the activity of the innate immune system.  However, exposure to potentially lethal infections like measles must be regarded as a very risky strategy for obtaining protection from other infections. Of potential clinical value, is new data suggesting that this nonspecific priming of the immune system can be exerted safely by vaccines but much more work is needed to develop this possibility.

A healthy immune system remains fully functional and ready to fight any new infection or respond to a booster vaccine. Factors that reduce the health (strength) of the immune system - and its ability to fight infection - are poor lifestyle and poor health through poor nutrition, malnutrition, excessive alcohol consumption, drug abuse, stress, etc.

The best way to build general immunity to infection is through a healthy balanced lifestyle.

This issue is explored in more detail in a 2022 review

Is lack of exposure to germs during COVID-19 weakening our systems?

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