QUESTION: On 8/5, CNN ran a brief announcement, stating UGA research shows evidence of increased skin/lung staph infection among citizens who live adjacent to fields fertilized with treated human "sludge". Please email me on how I may obtain a copy of this report or a news release on same.

ANSWER: The website where anyone may access and download the paper is: BioMed Central Public Health.

- David Gattie
UGA Bio/Ag Engineer

QUESTION: Are there any nutritional values in peaches (i.e., vitamins, minerals, etc.)?

ANSWER: While a peach may not be the most nutrition-packed of the fruits, it does provide good amounts of vitamin A (465 I.U.) and potassium (171 mg). It also provides small amounts of most of the other important nutrients like Vitamin C and folic acid. One medium peach has nearly 2 grams of fiber and only 37 calories. It is a nutritious option for a snack or dessert.

- Connie Crawley
UGA nutritionist

QUESTION: I've noticed many times that microwave ovens in public-use areas are dirty, with food splattered inside from previous users. Are there any health risks involved? Can harmful bacteria grow in this mess?

ANSWER: I've never seen any studies that indicate that microwaves are dangerous if they're splattered with food, but I do know they're not as efficient at cooking when they have food on the walls. It makes sense, though, that like any other dirty counter top or kitchen surface, a dirty microwave would provide an opportunity for bacterial growth and pest infestation. If the microwave is used often, I would think the repeated heating would destroy some bacteria. But if it is used less often, bacteria would start to grow. Manufacturers always recommend regular cleanup of any spills to maintain oven efficiency and hygiene. Obviously, the more the food is cooked on, the harder it will be to remove. An area often overlooked is the top of the microwave, where food splatters but isn't as visible.

- Connie Crawley
UGA nutritionist

QUESTION: I am wondering if our hot tub has some sort of bacteria that is making us sick. My husband came down with staph infection, and I have lost my voice. Started about the time we installed our hot tub. It was used, for only a year by my parents. We test the water regularly for enough chemicals, but don't think that includes testing for bacteria. Any ideas on how we would go about having it tested for staph or other bad bacteria?

ANSWER: When the pH and chlorine levels are not properly maintained in hot tubs and swimming pools, there is a high potential for infection, especially to the skin and urinary tract. Providing there is sufficient disinfection (proper pH and chlorine), it's usually not necessary to test for bacteria in a nonpublic hot tub or swimming pool. The opposite to this scenario is that there is too much chlorine, the pH is too high or both, causing skin irritation followed by an opportunistic infection by Staphylococcus aureus. When clients state that they "test regularly for enough chemicals," we need to know specifically which chemicals they are using before we can determine how to help.

Read this Web article that provides further information on hot tub water: Healthy Hot Tubs and Sickly Spas. Or, contact your county office of the University of Georgia Extension Service for help.

- Paul Vendrell
UGA Ag & Environmental Services Lab