[The development of an aerobic intestinal microflora in newborn infants]

The microbial colonization of the intestinal tract was studied in 60 newborn babies from three hospitals, with special regard to the typical hospital "problem" strains. Escherichia coli was the predominant initial colonizing species. Opportunistic pathogens were repeatedly detected. Some 30% of E. coli strains showed beta-hemolysis. Distinct differences between the three clinics were noted with respect to the detection frequency of the species isolated, hemolytic bacteria, the predominating E. coli strains, the occurrence of Candida albicans, and the time course of colonization of the gut by E coli. The microbial environment of the respective neonatal unit has a great influence on the initial intestinal colonization by aerobic microorganisms.