Shielding kids from dirt may not make them healthier

UBC microbiology professor Brett Finlay and University of Calgary scientist Marie-Claire Arrieta appeared on ABC News’ Good Morning America to talk about their research on the benefits of exposing children to essential microbes.

Allowing kids to get dirty helps to build up their immune systems, according to Finlay.

“We do have to think a bit: let the kid lick the floor in your own house but not the subway station,” he said.