Spores formed by bacteria ( during times of stress) are able to activate and allow proliferation of B cells, that have key roles in the immune system by producing antibodies.
Its clear humans have a symbiotic relationship with the bacteria (that number 10X more than human cells) in our body. Mice grown in sterile conditions were found to have weaker immune system, which further proves the point. So really we shouldn't go on an indiscriminate war against bacteria but rather learn more about the mechanisms involved so we can be better hosts, but don't worry in the long run the bacteria will do us great favours back!
MORE INFO
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/06/100614171907.htm
BACKGROUND INFO
Spores referred to above are not offsprings, but rather endospores, which is a protective coat the bacteria forms when conditions are deleterious to its survival or during environmental stress, and bacteria is able to re-emerge when conditions allow for its normal vegetative state.
Endospores can survive with no nutrients, consists of bacterial DNA in its cytoplasm, and able to survive high temperature, chemical disinfectants, and UV radiation. Commonly found in soil and water and can survive for long periods of time. Interestingly endospores are resistant to common anti-bacterial agents that destroy cell walls.
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