Filthy Flies

August 26, 2010

You have at least five more reasons to keep pesky flies from landing on your food, five different bacteria that can cause serious disease in humans. University of Florida research shows that common house flies can carry some dangerous pathogens. Scientists found five bacterial species that can cause illnesses ranging from food poisoning to respiratory infections. Research suggests flies may transmit the bacteria through their food-liquefying process or defecation. In this study, one bacterium in particular caught researcher’s attention.

Jim Maruniak/UF insect pathology researcher: “We did find one that was uncommon. We found a bacterium that causes dysentery. That’s not common here in the United States.”

Even more alarming, researchers found the flies examined in this study behind restaurant dumpsters. Researchers say this should remind the public to cover food and stay alert when dining out.

Jim Maruniak/UF insect pathology researcher: “You should ever be vigilant with our food and make sure when you go to a restaurant, that if there are flies around, then you need to tell the owner that there are measures that they can take to control flies.”

Scientists say they expect additional research will indicate flies could carry even more bacteria.