Interesting Read About Vets And Infectious Diseases

[sandgrubber]

Ick factor aside, has anyone seen evidence that the old-time vet, relaxed attitude toward hygine caused harm?

It's well documented that human hospitals are accumulating an unpleasant load of antibiotic-resistant bugs, and better hygine is needed.

Is there any evidence that the same is happening in veterinary practices?

[sandgrubber]

"Our profession appears to have a complacent attitude towards the use of personal protection," said the study's author, Dr Navneet Dhand.

"Not using appropriate protection when necessary is just like having unprotected sex with a stranger and thinking that it will be alright."

It would be good to see the full study. It would be good to see data on the diseases contracted. It would be good to know if Dr Dhand is of a faith the believes animals are unclean -- or if his or her research was supported by a company that sells 'hygenic' products to vets. Frankly, I'd prefer not to add $20+ to the cost of veterinary visits to pay for a bunch of disposable attire when a good old fashioned scrub down and reasonable precaution might do just as well.

Clean freaks and germ phobias contribute greatly to children's succeptibility to asthma. I'm all for evidence based measures to prevent contagion, but I think the article smacks of hysteria and fixing things that ain't broke.