Bacteria in parchment and paper

We received a call from a private client about a collection of
biblical illuminated manuscripts on paper and parchment in addition
to contemporary works on paper that are infested with bacteria.
These items were in a residential home that had an undetected sewage
leak in the wall for about 12 years.  Illness caused them to become
aware of the insidious leak. Everything in the house, including the
manuscript and art collection, was contaminated with bacteria.  To
date we do not know the extent of the damage to the items or the
type of bacteria present.  I have gathered extensive information on
how to deal with collection items contaminated with mold, but not
bacteria.  Does anyone have experience with bacteria-infected items?
If so, how would the bacteria best be eradicated?  We are concerned
about saving the items without creating a health hazard for anyone
handling them. Any information anyone has about this subject would
be of great help.

Betsy Haude, Conservator
Carrabba Conservation, Inc.


                                  ***
                  Conservation DistList Instance 15:37
                 Distributed: Monday, November 12, 2001
                       Message Id: cdl-15-37-012
                                  ***