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Microbiological problems of manned space flight
1Department of Microbiology, Scripps Clinic and Research Foundation, La Jolla, Calif., USA.
Abstract:
The hazard of infectious disease in long-duration manned space flight is discussed in relation to the unique conditions of spacecraft environment. Confinement in a small, enclosed volume, special problems of waste disposal and personal hygiene, zero gravity, and high oxygen content present special features that favor transmission of micro-organisms. Alterations in microbial flora will occur and these will influence host defenses against disease. Genetic variants of micro-organisms could be induced by and selected under the unique conditions of space flight. A reduction in the variety of microbial flora could result in "microbial shock" on re-entry. The influence of environmental conditions of the spacecraft on host defenses against infection is unpredictable in the absence of investigative work. However, pre-flight assessment of immune status is recommended. A graduated pre-flight isolation period is highly recommended to permit exchange of flora, to protect astronauts from new agents, and to allow most infections to emerge.
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