Bacterial flora of nose and throat in health and upper respiratory infection.

Abstract

In searching for the causative agent in respiratory disease, the problem is seriously complicated by the fact that the nose and throat normally harbor a variety of bacteria, some constantly present and others more or less transient. Correct interpretation, therefore, of the importance of organisms found in respiratory disease is dependent upon comprehensive familiarity with the bacterial flora in health. In the present study, a preliminary in an investigation of the Common Cold being undertaken by us, observations have been made of the bacterial flora of the nose and throat in a group of normals over a comparatively long period, and qualitative and quantitative changes occurring in the course of upper respiratory infections appearing in the group have been noted.Thirteen individuals were studied for periods ranging from five to nine months. Aerobic and anaerobic cultures were made from the nose and throat infections weekly in health, and daily in the course of colds and throat infections. All organisms pr...