Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

Can Harmful Bacteria Such as Ecoli Exist in Normal Air?

Hi OrangeWool,

Yes, it is possible for harmful bacteria to be present in the air. Note, however, that not all strains of E. coli are considered harmful.

If you are interested in conducting an experiment, you need to know that there are restrictions for science fairs in regards to working with bacteria, especially species that are potentially harmful to humans. If you are interested in learning more background about airborne bacteria, here are a few links to get you started:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/article ... 4-0100.pdf (This is a scientific paper, so just read what you can understand.)
News article about airborne bacteria from dog feces: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/20 ... 190602.htm
News article about airborne bacteria forming clouds: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,520658,00.html

Let us know if you have more questions.

Heather