Final answer:
The 0.1% of bacteria that remain after sanitation can multiply and recolonize the area, sometimes with greater resistance. It's beneficial to maintain some microbial presence for overall health and to prevent harmful pathogens from proliferating. Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern due to overuse of antibacterial products.
Step-by-step explanation:
After sanitation efforts, the tiny percentage (0.1%) of bacteria and germs that survive often represent the most resistant strains. These resilient microbes can then multiply and recolonize the sanitized area, sometimes with increased resistance to antibacterial agents. This scenario underscores the problematic nature of striving for a completely germ-free environment. Our bodies harbor a complex microbiome that plays a crucial role in our health. Inappropriate use of disinfectants and antibiotics can disrupt this balance, leading to antibiotic resistance and potentially reviving once-controlable diseases. It is important to remember the beneficial aspects of microorganisms and maintain a balance. Antibiotic resistance develops through mutation and natural selection, and these traits can be shared across bacterial populations. Disinfectants can't reach all bacteria, especially those deep within hair follicles and other protected areas; such bacteria act as a reservoir for repopulating the skin's surface. Sanitation doesn't equate to sterilization; a certain amount of microbial presence is necessary for health, particularly for the prevention of other, more harmful pathogens from taking over. Healthy microbiomes are also vital for a functioning immune system. Overuse of antibacterial agents can be detrimental, potentially leading to issues like C. difficile infections. Some bacteria are crucial for gut health and can affect diverse body functions, including metabolism and immunity. Thus, while disinfection is important to prevent disease, it is essential to maintain the balance of our normal flora.