Germ theory is nothing new, its been around for centuries, and forms the basis of the sterile surgical methods used today. The great thing about Science is that it is based on observation, and repeatable experimentation using scientific method to prove or disprove a theory. As more is learned the original theories may change and develop.
Accepting that a theory is wrong , once proven wrong , or right, if proven right, shows an open mind, which IMHO is the mark of a good scientist.
No-one has said that Moritz is not respected by his peers.