A fascinating examination of the three pounds of bacteria living in a typical human being. We are a society obsessed with cleanliness -- but is this a healthy obsession? Do we use antibacterial products correctly? Should my child wash her hands after playing in the park? Why does my doctor insist that I finish the bottle of antibiotics even though I feel better? What is Lactobacillus? And superbugs? The human body plays host to trillions of bugs -- living microorganisms too tiny to see -- including our own personal, unique set of bacteria. We're only just beginning to understand the important role these bacteria play in human health.

Includes bibliographical references and index.