A brand new bacterium in the same family as E. Coli and Klebsiella Pneumonia has been identified by the NSF International's Applied Research Center in Ann Arbor, and you're not going to like where it can be found.
The bacteria is called Klebsiella michiganensis, and it grows in the bottom of your toothbrush holder.
Dr. Robert Donofrio is theDirector of the Applied Research Center at the NSF.
He says more research is necessary to identify the exact source of the bacterium, but what is known is that saliva and toothpaste mixed with fecal matter can fester, creating a sludge that could potentially cause a drug-resistant infection.
Dr. Donofrio also says that the bacterium is unique because it is in capsule from, and is hard to break down due to a slimy surface that helps it attach to mucus membranes and evade immune system responses.
He suggests closing the lid of your toilet before flushing as a way to help prevent cross-contamination.
