Contamination Of Hospital Environment Research Articles

Environmental contamination with carbapenem resistant Acinetobacter baumannii in healthcare settings in Fiji: a potential source of infection

IntroductionThere are multiple ongoing outbreaks of carbapenem resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAb) infection in Fiji’s hospitals. CRAb is able to colonize and persist on various hospital surfaces for extended periods. We conducted a study to understand the extent of hospital environmental contamination and phylogenetic links with clinical isolates.MethodsSwabs were collected from high-touch surfaces at Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CWMH) September 2021 and December 2022; Lautoka Hospital (LTKH) August 2022; and Labasa Hospital (LBSH) November 2022. All bacterial isolates were identified, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) performed; isolates resistant to carbapenems and producing a carbapenemase underwent whole genome sequencing. Comparison was made to clinical isolates obtained from CWMH in 2016–2017 and 2019–2021 and from LTKH and LBSH from 2020–2021.ResultsFrom the 180 environmental samples collected, ten (5.6%) CRAb were isolated; no other carbapenem-resistant gram-negative organisms were isolated. Seven (70%) of the CRAb were isolated from CWMH and three (30%) from LTKH; no CRAb were isolated from LBSH. Of the seven CWMH CRAb, two were sequence type 2 (ST2), three ST25, and two ST499. All LTKH isolates were ST499. The two environmental CRAb ST2 isolates were closely genetically linked to isolates obtained from patients in CWMH, LTKH, and LBSH 2020–2021. Similarly, the three environmental CRAb ST25 isolates were closely genetically linked to isolates obtained from patients admitted to CWMH in 2019–2021 and LBSH in 2020. The environmental CRAb ST499 isolates represented two distinct clones, with clone 1 comprising two genetically identical isolates from CWMH and clone 2 the three isolates from LTKH. Although no genetic linkages were observed when comparing environmental ST499 isolates to those from CWMH patients in 2020–2021, both clone 1 isolates were genetically identical to an isolate obtained from a patient admitted during the sampling period.ConclusionOur study highlights the contamination of high-touch surfaces within Fiji hospitals with CRAb, suggesting that these may serve as important sources for CRAb. Phylogenetic linkages to CRAb isolated from patients since 2019 underscores the persistence of this resistant pathogen in hospital settings and the ongoing risk for hospital-acquired infections.

Impact of medical waste bin on contamination of patient’s environment: An experimental study

Medical waste bins are a potential source of microbial contamination in the hospital environment, while there is no clear guidance for the management of them. We aimed to assess the impact of medical waste bins on patient's environment. This experimental study simulated microbial contamination by performing medical procedures on a patient model with fluorescent lotion. The waste bin was set as initially empty or two-thirds filled with waste, open or with a lid. The percentage of fluorescent-contaminated area in designated patient's environments was analyzed by 2 independent observers. Among a total of 120 experiments, the sides of the bins were more contaminated in open-occupied bins compared to open-empty bins and in open-occupied bins compared to lid-occupied bins (median 1.9175% vs 0.0916% [P=.001] and 1.9175% vs 0.0899% [P=.003], respectively). The top of the bedside equipment trolley for preparing medical procedures was more contaminated in lid-occupied bins than open-occupied bins (median 0.0080% vs 0.0040%, P=.013). In addition to reducing contamination of the bin itself, the manually operated lid had a potential risk of contributing to microbial transmission by contaminating the equipment trolley. Medical waste bins should be kept no more than two-thirds full, and caution should be taken when using the manually operated lid, to avoid cross-contamination.

Detection of pathogenic bacteria in the surgical rooms of Al-Ramady hospital using next generation sequencing

This study was aimed at applying the next generation sequence technique, to evaluate the microbial contamination of the General Al-Ramady Hospital and the diagnosis of dangerous types. Several surface swabs were taken from the surgical room devices and equipment used during the surgery period at the hospital. Hospital environment contributes chiefly to the emergence of Nosocomial infection, the most common and severe complications in the provision of health care to patients in the hospital, it has become necessary to specify and identify the causes of illness through alternative methods to traditional methods that waste time, money and effort.. The results showed contamination of hospital environment by several varieties of bacteria. They were pathogenic and nonpathogenic bacteria, in spite of the action of the Antiseptics used in sterilization. the most common of which were several types of Pseudomonas of 84.26% and Acinetobacter of 13.85%. The present of this pathogenic bacteria in hospital-related injuries, which are mean vital indicators of contamination in the hospital environment. Data suggest that it is possible to diagnose and identify the types of pathogenic, discover effective strategies for monitoring and controlling the hospital environment and providing the essential tools to avoid the spread of infection, particularly in the presence of the molecular technique.

Perinatal colonization with extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing and carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria: a hospital-based cohort study

BackgroundAntimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health threat that contributes to substantial neonatal mortality. Bangladesh has reported some of the highest rates of AMR among bacteria causing neonatal sepsis. As AMR colonization among newborns can predispose to infection with these bacteria, we aimed to characterize the frequency of and risk factors for colonization of mothers and newborns during hospitalization for delivery.MethodsWe enrolled pregnant women presenting for delivery to a tertiary care hospital in Faridpur, Bangladesh. We collected vaginal and rectal swabs from mothers pre- and post-delivery, rectal swabs from newborns, and swabs from the hospital environment. Swabs were plated on agars selective for extended-spectrum-beta-lactamase producing bacteria (ESBL-PB) and carbapenem-resistant bacteria (CRB). We performed logistic regression to determine factors associated with ESBL-PB/CRB colonization.ResultsWe enrolled 177 women and their newborns during February-October 2020. Prior to delivery, 77% of mothers were colonized with ESBL-PB and 15% with CRB. 79% of women underwent cesarean deliveries (C-section). 98% of women received antibiotics. Following delivery, 98% of mothers and 89% of newborns were colonized with ESBL-PB and 89% of mothers and 72% of newborns with CRB. Of 290 environmental samples, 77% were positive for ESBL-PB and 69% for CRB. Maternal pre-delivery colonization was associated with hospitalization during pregnancy (RR for ESBL-PB 1.24, 95% CI 1.10–1.40; CRB 2.46, 95% CI 1.39–4.37). Maternal post-delivery and newborn colonization were associated with C-section (RR for maternal CRB 1.31, 95% CI 1.08–1.59; newborn ESBL-PB 1.34, 95% CI 1.09–1.64; newborn CRB 1.73, 95% CI 1.20–2.47).ConclusionsIn this study, we observed high rates of colonization with ESBL-PB/CRB among mothers and newborns, with pre-delivery colonization linked to prior healthcare exposure. Our results demonstrate this trend may be driven by intense use of antibiotics, frequent C-sections, and a contaminated hospital environment. These findings highlight that greater attention should be given to the use of perinatal antibiotics, improved surgical stewardship for C-sections, and infection prevention practices in healthcare settings to reduce the high prevalence of colonization with AMR organisms.

Level of Awareness towards Covid-19 Recurrence among Adults COVID-19 Patients in Machakos Country in Kenya

Introduction: Cases of Covid-19 recurrence have become prevalent. This study seeks to establish the level of awareness towards Covid-19 recurrence among adults in Machakos County in Kenya. The study was guided by the health belief model and socio-ecological model.
 Methods: The study design was a cross-sectional study. The study adopted a quantitative approach. The target population in this study was 7, 428 Covid-19 patients in Machakos County. The sample size for the study was 418 respondents. Purposive sampling was used in selecting the respondents for the study. Data was collected through a questionnaire.
 Data Analysis: Data was analyzed through descriptive statistics comprising of frequencies and percentages. Chi-Square test was used in determining the association between the independent and dependent variables of the study.
 Results: From the findings, the overall Covid-19 recurrence was 11.1%. Overall knowledge, attitude and practice levels towards Covid-19 management and control were high. The study found that gender, level of education, engaging in any form of drugs/substance use and abuse and practices towards Covid-19 management and control were the significant host status determinants of Covid-19 recurrence. The study also found that staff shortages, proximity challenges and contaminated hospital environment were the significant facility determinants of Covid-19 recurrence. Further, it was evident from the study that the significant clinical determinants of Covid-19 recurrence included oxygen treatment for Covid-19, and longer duration in hospital during the first Covid-19 infection.
 Conclusions and Recommendation: The study recommends that the government should invest more in health facilities in terms of human resource for health personnel and equipment for treatment. The study recommends that future studies should be experimental so as to detect the actual biochemical concentrations for Covid-19 patients and recurrence rates among patients.

Efficacy of Violet-Blue (405 nm) LED Lamps for Disinfection of High-Environmental-Contact Surfaces in Healthcare Facilities: Leading to the Inactivation of Microorganisms and Reduction of MRSA Contamination.

Effective disinfection procedures in healthcare facilities are essential to prevent transmission. Chemical disinfectants, hydrogen peroxide vapour (HPV) systems and ultraviolet (UV) light are commonly used methods. An emerging method, violet-blue light at 405 nm, has shown promise for surface disinfection. Its antimicrobial properties are based on producing reactive oxygen species (ROS) that lead to the inactivation of pathogens. Studies have shown significant efficacy in reducing bacterial levels on surfaces and in the air, reducing nosocomial infections. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial effectiveness of violet-blue (405 nm) LED lamps on high-contact surfaces in a hospital infection-control laboratory. High-contact surfaces were sampled before and after 7 days of exposure to violet-blue light. In addition, the effect of violet-blue light on MRSA-contaminated surfaces was investigated. Exposure to violet-blue light significantly reduced the number of bacteria, yeasts and moulds on the sampled surfaces. The incubator handle showed a low microbial load and no growth after irradiation. The worktable and sink showed an inconsistent reduction due to shaded areas. In the second experiment, violet-blue light significantly reduced the microbial load of MRSA on surfaces, with a greater reduction on steel surfaces than on plastic surfaces. Violet-blue light at 405 nm has proven to be an effective tool for pathogen inactivation in healthcare settings Violet-blue light shows promise as an additional and integrated tool to reduce microbial contamination in hospital environments but must be used in combination with standard cleaning practices and infection control protocols. Further research is needed to optimise the violet-blue, 405 nm disinfection method.

Prevalence of pathogenic organism associated with hospital environment (a case study of Ile-Abiye hospital, Ado-Ekiti)

Microbial contamination of the hospital environment has continued to increase the prevalence of nosocomial infections. This study assessed the level of microbial contamination of hospital environment: a case study of Ile-Abiye Hospital, Ado-Ekiti. Swab plate method was used to collect samples from bed surfaces. Collected samples were analyzed for the presence of bacteria using standard procedures. The entire swab specimens had bacterial growth. The bacteria isolates were, Staphylococcus aureus 12(62.5%), Escherichia coli 5(12.5%), Staphylococcus epidermidis 3(7.5%), and Lactobacillus fermenti 3(7.5%), Bacillus subtilis 2(5%), Bacillus cereus 1(2.5%), and Micrococcus luteus 1(2.5%). The results indicated that Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were the major species contaminating the hospital floor. Contamination of hospital floor by pathogenic bacteria is a real danger to public health. The concept of environmental bacterial reservoir is a reality that requires strict compliance with current guidelines and recommendations for hand hygiene, cleaning, and disinfection of door handles in hospitals.

Isolation and Characterization of Multidrug Resistant Bacterial Pathogens Present in Hospital Environment within Awka Metropolis

The contamination of hospital environment by bacterial organisms plays a vital role in the spread of nosocomial infections. This study was conducted to determine bacterial contamination, bacterial profiles, antibiotic susceptibility pattern and plasmid profiles of bacterial isolates from hospital air, water and fomite environment within Awka. This cross-sectional study was conducted at Crest Specialist Hospital, Regina Caeli Specialist Hospital and Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) Medical Centre, Awka. Using random sampling techniques (surface, air and water), culturing, Gram staining, antibiotic susceptibility test, biochemical tests and molecular identification, bacterial organisms from surrounding air, water and fomites were isolated and identified. A total of 112 samples were collected from the three hospitals. Of all the samples, 110 (98.2%) showed positive for bacterial growth. A total of 40 bacterial isolates underwent antibiotic sensitivity testing, of which 6 (15%) showed multidrug resistance. Bacterial organisms isolated from Regina Caeli Hospital showed the most resistance to the antibiotic drugs (41.8%), followed by Crest Specialist Hospital (30.9%) and then UNIZIK Medical Centre (27.3%). Interestingly, there was 100% sensitivity of isolates to ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, ofloxacin, augmentin (amoxicillinclavulanate), rifampicin and septrin. Out of the six multidrug resistant isolates, Staphylococcus hominis strain PCP01, Myroides odoratimimus subsp. xuanwuensis strain M2S3B6 and Bacillus cereus strain DS-2 were identified using DNA sequencing and PCR. The three identified microorganisms are opportunistic pathogens. While S. hominis has no plasmid, both M. odoratimimus and B. cereus showed the presence of plasmids. With proper prevention practices such as; disinfection of hospital surfaces, proper personal hygiene of health care workers, special air handling and ventilation and wearing of facemask within the hospital environment, possibilities of nosocomial infections can be reduced drastically, especially in Africa. Keywords: Isolation, Characterization, Multidrug Resistant and Bacterial

Detection of hospital environmental contamination during SARS-CoV-2 Omicron predominance using a highly sensitive air sampling device.

The high transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 has exposed weaknesses in our infection control and detection measures, particularly in healthcare settings. Aerial sampling has evolved from passive impact filters to active sampling using negative pressure to expose culture substrate for virus detection. We evaluated the effectiveness of an active air sampling device as a potential surveillance system in detecting hospital pathogens, for augmenting containment measures to prevent nosocomial transmission, using SARS-CoV-2 as a surrogate. We conducted air sampling in a hospital environment using the AerosolSenseTM air sampling device and compared it with surface swabs for their capacity to detect SARS-CoV-2. When combined with RT-qPCR detection, we found the device provided consistent SARS-CoV-2 detection, compared to surface sampling, in as little as 2 h of sampling time. The device also showed that it can identify minute quantities of SARS-CoV-2 in designated "clean areas" and through a N95 mask, indicating good surveillance capacity and sensitivity of the device in hospital settings. Active air sampling was shown to be a sensitive surveillance system in healthcare settings. Findings from this study can also be applied in an organism agnostic manner for surveillance in the hospital, improving our ability to contain and prevent nosocomial outbreaks.

Contamination of hospital environment with multi drug resistant (MDR) bacteria responsible for healthcare acquired infections: Case of Universitary Hospital Center of Marrakesh-Morocco

The hospital environment plays a significant role in the transmission of healthcare acquired multidrug resistant bacteria among hospitalized patients, especially in high-risk infectious units. Therefore, the present study aims to describe the distribution of microorganisms present on inanimate surfaces, hospital equipment and healthcare workers hands of the hospital units in Marrakech’s Mohammed VI University Hospital (UHC).

Anatase Film on Orotracheal Tubes to Mitigate Staphylococcus aureus

Bacterial contamination in hospital environments is a significant concern for patient admissions. Aiming to reduce contamination, titanium dioxide film (TiO2) in the anatase phase has been prepared on the surface of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) tubes. The PVC tube material was used to study the film’s effectiveness in inhibiting bacterial growth and cell viability. The morphology and composition of deposited films were investigated using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) map. In addition, Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and XRD diffractogram were used to analyze film composition and phase, respectively. The adhesion of TiO2 film on PVC substrate was determined using Scotch™ tape-test according to ASTM: D3359-09, 2010, and the film surface morphology was analyzed by the MEV-FEG technique and EDS map. The bacterial viability was performed with Staphylococcus aureus, and cell viability was performed using L929 strain mouse fibroblasts. The results of TiO2 in the anatase phase deposited by ALD on the PVC surface demonstrate good adherence and the film’s effectiveness in inhibiting bacterial growth and cell viability.

Environmental surveillance of ESBL and carbapenemase-producing gram-negative bacteria in a Ghanaian Tertiary Hospital

BackgroundThe burden of antibiotic resistant infection is mainly felt in low-to-middle income countries, where the rate of antimicrobial resistance is largely under-surveyed and under huge pressure from unregulated, disparate and often self-guided access to antimicrobials. Nosocomial infections from hospital environments have been shown to be a particularly prevalent source of multi-drug resistant strains, yet surveillance of hospital environmental contamination is often not investigated.MethodsThe study was prospective, observational and cross-sectional, sampling 231 high and low touch surfaces from 15th March to 13th April 2021, from five wards in the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, Ghana. Microbial growth in the presence of vancomycin and either meropenem or cefotaxime was examined and bacterial species were identified by MALDI-TOF. The presence of common extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) and carbapenemase antimicrobial resistance genes (ARG) were identified through PCR screening, which were confirmed by phenotypic antimicrobial susceptibility determination. Isolates positive for carbapenem resistance genes were sequenced using a multi-platform approach.ResultsWe recovered microbial growth from 99% of swabs (n = 229/231) plated on agar in the absence of antimicrobials. Multiple sites were found to be colonised with resistant bacteria throughout the hospital setting. Bacteria with multi-drug resistance and ARG of concern were isolated from high and low touch points with evidence of strain dissemination throughout the environment. A total of 21 differing species of bacteria carrying ARG were isolated. The high prevalence of Acinetobacter baumannii carrying blaNDM-1 observed was further characterised by whole genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis to determine the relationship between resistant strains found in different wards.ConclusionEvidence of multiple clonal incursions of MDR bacteria of high sepsis risk were found in two separate wards for a regional hospital in Ghana. The prevalence of multiple blaNDM carrying species in combination with combinations of ESBLs was particularly concerning and unexpected in Africa. We also identify strains carrying tet(X3), blaVIM-5 or blaDIM-1 showing a high diversity of carbapenamases present as a reservoir in a hospital setting. Findings of multi-drug resistant bacteria from multiple environmental sites throughout the hospital will inform future IPC practices and aid research prioritisation for AMR in Ghana.

Evaluation of hospital environment for presence of Mucorales during COVID-19-associated mucormycosis outbreak in India – a multi-centre study

BackgroundAn unprecedented rise in the number of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) cases has been reported in India. Myriad hypotheses are proposed for the outbreak. We recently reported uncontrolled diabetes and inappropriate steroid therapy as significant risk factors for the outbreak. However, Mucorales contamination of hospital environment was not studied.AimTo perform a multi-centre study across India to determine possible Mucorales contamination of hospital environment during the outbreak.MethodsEleven hospitals from four zones of India representing high to low incidence for mucormycosis cases were included in the study. Samples from a variety of equipment used by the patients and ambient air were collected during May 19th, 2021 through August 25th, 2021.FindingsNone of the hospital equipment sampled was contaminated with Mucorales. However, Mucorales were isolated from 11.1% air-conditioning vents and 1.7% of patients' used masks. Other fungi were isolated from 18% of hospital equipment and surfaces, and 8.1% of used masks. Mucorales grew from 21.7% indoor and 53.8% outdoor air samples. Spore counts of Mucorales in air were significantly higher in the hospitals of North and South zones compared to West and East zones (P < 0.0001). Among Mucorales isolated from the environment, Rhizopus spp. were the most frequent genus.ConclusionContamination of air-conditioning vents and hospital air by Mucorales was found. Presence of Mucorales in these areas demands regular surveillance and improvement of hospital environment, as contamination may contribute to healthcare-associated mucormycosis outbreaks, especially among immunocompromised patients.

Detection of Hospital Environmental Contamination During SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Predominance Using a Highly Sensitive Air Sampling Device

Detection of Hospital Environmental Contamination During SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Predominance Using a Highly Sensitive Air Sampling Device

Clinical Application of Ultraviolet C Inactivation of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 in Contaminated Hospital Environments.

To overcome the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, transmission routes, such as healthcare worker infection, must be effectively prevented. Ultraviolet C (UVC) (254 nm) has recently been demonstrated to prevent environmental contamination by infected patients; however, studies on its application in contaminated hospital settings are limited. Herein, we explored the clinical application of UVC and determined its optimal dose. Environmental samples (n = 267) collected in 2021 were analyzed by a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and subjected to UVC irradiation for different durations (minutes). We found that washbasins had a high contamination rate (45.5%). SARS-CoV-2 was inactivated after 15 min (estimated dose: 126 mJ/cm2) of UVC irradiation, and the contamination decreased from 41.7% before irradiation to 16.7%, 8.3%, and 0% after 5, 10, and 15 min of irradiation, respectively (p = 0.005). However, SARS-CoV-2 was still detected in washbasins after irradiation for 20 min but not after 30 min (252 mJ/cm2). Thus, 15 min of 254-nm UVC irradiation was effective in cleaning plastic, steel, and wood surfaces in the isolation ward. For silicon items, such as washbasins, 30 min was suggested; however, further studies using hospital environmental samples are needed to confirm the effective UVC inactivation of SARS-CoV-2.

Microbial Contamination in Hospital Environment Has the Potential to Colonize Preterm Newborns' Nasal Cavities.

Infants born before 28 weeks are at risk of contracting healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), which could be caused by pathogens residing on contaminated hospital surfaces. In this longitudinal study, we characterized by NGS the bacterial composition of nasal swabs of preterm newborns, at the time of birth and after admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), comparing it with that of the environmental wards at the time of delivery and during the hospitalization. We characterized the resistome on the samples too. The results showed that environmental microorganisms responsible for HAIs, in particular Staphylococcus spp., Streptococcus spp., Escherichia-Shigella spp., and K. pneumoniae, were detected in higher percentages in the noses of the babies after 13 days of hospitalization, in terms of the number of colonized patients, microorganism amount, and relative abundance. The analysis of nasal bacteria resistome evidenced the absence of resistance genes at the time of birth, some of which appeared and increased after the admission in the NICU. These data suggest that hospital surface microbiota might be transported to respiratory mucosae or other profound tissues. Our study highlights the importance of a screening that allows characterizing the microbial profile of the environment to assess the risk of colonization of the newborn.

Molecular Study of MDR Bacteria Contaminated Hospital Environment

Some isolates of bacteria were taken from various places inside the hospital, including operating theaters,corridors, ventilation areas, floors, and other samples were taken from patients suffering from antibioticresistance.The study aims to discover the multiple resistant bacteria present in the hospital environment, to discover theextent of their resistance, and to detect the gene NDM-1, NDM-2, which when they are present, the bacteriaare highly resistant.When a patient is infected with multiple resistant bacteria, he suffers from all antibiotic resistance and maylead to death, which is the biggest problem in the world today.

Evaluation of Rhodotorula spp. contamination in hospital environments.

Microbiological monitoring of air and surfaces is a valuable tool for assessing the level of environmental contamination by bacteria and fungi in hospitals, especially in high-risk wards. The presence of these microorganisms requires strict control in view of their role as opportunistic pathogens. As regard yeasts, Candida albicans is one of the main opportunistic pathogens. However, in recent years, many other "non-Albicans" species have been identified that are implicated in the onset of both localised infections in immunocompetent patients and systemic infections in immunocompromised patients. The aim of the work was to evaluate the frequency of isolation of Rhodotorula spp. in environmental samples of hospital origin in order to highlight how its presence may represent an increased risk for hospitalised patients. The samples were taken in at-risk wards, divided into six types of environments, in three hospitals in southern Sardinia between 2016 and 2019. The presence of moulds and yeasts was higher in the air (55.7%) than on surfaces (44.3%) in the hospital environments (p<0.001). Similarly, the isolation frequency of Rhodotorula spp. was found to be greater (p<0.001) in the air (14.2%) than on surfaces (9.2%). This study made it possible to evaluate the presence of pathogenic fungi in hospital environments, paying particular attention to Rhodotorula spp. since it is an emerging opportunistic yeast. It also highlights the importance of control measures especially in those where immunocompromised patients are present.

Risk factors for the environmental spread of different multidrug-resistant organisms: a prospective cohort study

Substantial scientific evidence shows that contamination of environmental surfaces in hospitals plays an important role in the transmission of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs). To date, studies have failed to identify the risk factors associated with environmental contamination. To evaluate, compare, and identify factors associated with environmental contamination around carriers of different MDROs. This was a prospective cohort study from May 2018 to February 2020. A total of 125 patients were included, having been admitted to Avicenne Hospital and Hotel Dieu de France de Beyrouth Hospital who were faecal carriers of MDROs (extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales (ESBL-PE), carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPE), vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE)). For each patient, quantification of MDRO in stool was undertaken, plus a qualitative evaluation of the presence of MDRO in six different environmental sites; and clinical data were collected. MDROs comprised ESBL-PE (34%), CPE (45%), and VRE (21%). The most frequent MDRO species was Escherichia coli. Contamination of at least one environmental site was observed for 22 (18%) patients. Only carriage of VanA was associated with a significantly higher risk of dissemination. Having a urinary catheter, carriage of OXA48 and E.coli were protective factors against environmental contamination. There were no significant differences in environmental contamination between E.coli and other Enterobacterales or between ESBL-PE and CPE. Hospital environmental contamination rates are substantially higher for patients with VRE, compared to the low environment dissemination rates around ESBL-PE and CPE. Further studies on a larger scale are needed to confirm the validity of our findings.

Aptasensor for the detection of Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus on contaminated surfaces

There is mounting evidence that contaminated hospital environment plays a crucial role in the transmission of nosocomial pathogens such as MRSA. The institution of infection control protocols is predicated on the early laboratory detection of the pathogen from relevant samples.Processing of environmental samples for the presence of bacterial contaminants in the clinical environment is poorly standardized when compared with analysis of clinical samples. The various laboratory methods available for processing environmental samples are difficult to standardized and most require a long turnaround time before results are available.In this study, we present a report of the performance of a novel pathogen aptasensor swab designed to qualitatively and quantitatively detect MRSA, on contaminated non-absorbable surfaces. The visual detection limit of the MRSA aptasensor swab was less than 100 CFU/ml and theoretically using a standard curve, was 2 CFU/ml. A relatively short turnaround time of 5 min was established for the assay while the linear range of quantitation was 102–105 CFU/ml. Engineered aptasensor targets MRSA selectively and binds to none of the other tested bacterial pathogen, on a multi-contaminated surface. This novel detection tool was easy to use and relatively cheap to produce.