The article highlights concerns regarding 'pink slime', a type of bacteria known as serratia marcescens, which thrives in moist bathroom environments. While it is generally harmless to most, NHS surgeon Dr. Karan Rajan warns that it can trigger serious infections in immunocompromised individuals, including pneumonia and sepsis. The bacteria feeds on soap and shampoo residue, making bathrooms its ideal habitat. Additionally, the presence of pink slime may indicate a risk for other harmful molds, such as black mold, which can lead to respiratory issues.
In serious cases the bacteria can enter the bloodstream leading to pneumonia, a lung infection, or sepsis, a potentially fatal response to an infection which affects 245,000 people in the UK every year.
'It enjoys munching on fatty deposits like those found in soaps and shampoos, hence why it likes to hang out in the bathroom.'
Dr Rajan said the bacteria is 'pretty harmless' for the average person he warned it was still inadvisable to get the pink slime in 'your eyes or open wounds'.
He warned that such patients can be at greater risk of the bacteria infecting the chest, gut or getting a painful urinary tract infection (UTI).
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