Aerial Dissemination of Clostridium difficile Spores
Author Information
Author(s): Katherine Roberts, Caroline F. Smith, Anna M. Snelling, Kevin G. Kerr, Kathleen R. Banfield, P. Andrew Sleigh, Clive B. Beggs
Primary Institution: University of Leeds
Hypothesis
Can Clostridium difficile be cultured from the air in a hospital setting?
Conclusion
The study found evidence of sporadic aerial dissemination of C. difficile spores, suggesting that current control measures may be inadequate.
Supporting Evidence
- C. difficile was cultured from the air on two separate days.
- Mean counts of C. difficile were between 53 and 426 cfu/m3 of air.
- 22 out of 23 isolates belonged to ribotype 001.
Takeaway
The researchers found that tiny particles of a germ called C. difficile can float in the air in hospitals, which might help explain why some people keep getting sick.
Methodology
Air samples were collected using a portable cyclone sampler and surface samples using contact plates in a hospital ward.
Limitations
The study was a short pilot and did not yield C. difficile from environmental samples despite finding it in the air.
Participant Demographics
Elderly patients in a healthcare facility.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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