The effect of improved hand hygiene on nosocomial MRSA control

Longitudinal two-year comparative genomic analysis of respiratory Staphylococcus aureus isolates from intensive care unit mechanically ventilated patients

BACKGROUND

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is the main healthcare-associated infection in intensive care units with Staphylococcus aureus as the first pathogen in early VAP.

AIM

To compare, using whole-genome sequencing (WGS), consecutive S. aureus isolates from lower respiratory samples of mechanically ventilated patients for identification of potential cross-transmissions; and to determine a potential link between S. aureus WGS data and patients with S. aureus early VAP.

METHODS

All mechanically ventilated patients with a documentation of respiratory S. aureus isolates were included over a two-year period. WGS allowed typing, comparative genomic and phylogenic analyses, as well as analyses of antibiotic resistance genes and virulence genes. Virulence genes were compared between patients who developed respiratory infectious event and those who did not.

FINDINGS

A total of 172 S. aureus isolates from 167 patients were sequenced. WGS revealed that the S. aureus population was polyclonal with only two potential healthcare cross-transmissions, each involving two isolates (2.3%). A very low resistance rate was observed with a strong genotypic/phenotypic association, and with a virulence profile highly dependent on the sequence type. No significant correlation was observed between VAP and virulence profile.

CONCLUSION

This study on consecutive respiratory S. aureus isolates of mechanically ventilated patients revealed a very low level of cross-transmission. No association was observed between S. aureus WGS data and VAP occurrence.

Analysis of toxin-producing and antiseptic resistance genes of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from patients in a neonatal intensive care unit

BACKGROUND

Polymerase chain reaction--based open-reading frame typing (POT) is used to investigate nosocomial infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). We analyzed the relationship between POT types, nosocomial infections, and toxin-producing and antiseptic resistance genes of MRSA isolated from patients in neonatal intensive care units.

METHODS

Forty-four strains were typed by POT method. We identified toxin genes lukpvSF, tst, eta and etb, and antiseptic resistance genes qacA/B and smr.

RESULTS

Fourteen POT types were identified; 43 strains were considered community-acquired MRSA. Twenty-eight strains were nosocomial. Eleven strains were positive for toxin-producing genes (9 for tst and 2 for lukpvSF) and classified into 6 POT types. Six strains were positive for antiseptic resistance genes (qacA/B) and classified into 2 POT types. Overall, 11 MRSA isolates were positive for toxin-producing or antiseptic resistance genes (6 nosocomial, 5 non-nosocomial). Strains with POT types 106-9-80 (2 strains) and 106-221-120 (4 strains) were positive for tst and qacA/B, equally divided between nosocomial and non-nosocomial.

DISCUSSION

Some POT types are prone to nosocomial infections. However, no clear association between toxin-producing or antiseptic resistance genes and nosocomial infections was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Factors other than toxin production and resistance to disinfectants may be related to nosocomial infection.

Food Webs and Feedbacks: The Untold Ecological Relevance of Antimicrobial Resistance as Seen in Harmful Algal Blooms

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has long been framed as an epidemiological and public health concern. Its impacts on the environment are unclear. Yet, the basis for AMR is altered cell physiology. Just as this affects how microbes interact with antimicrobials, it can also affect how they interact with their own species, other species, and their non-living environment. Moreover, if the microbes are globally notorious for causing landscape-level environmental issues, then these effects could alter biodiversity and ecosystem function on a grand scale. To investigate these possibilities, we compiled peer-reviewed literature from the past 20 years regarding AMR in toxic freshwater cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (HABs). We examined it for evidence of AMR affecting HAB frequency, severity, or persistence. Although no study within our scope was explicitly designed to address the question, multiple studies reported AMR-associated changes in HAB-forming cyanobacteria (and co-occurring microbes) that pertained directly to HAB timing, toxicity, and phase, as well as to the dynamics of HAB-afflicted aquatic food webs. These findings highlight the potential for AMR to have far-reaching environmental impacts (including the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem function) and bring into focus the importance of confronting complex interrelated issues such as AMR and HABs in concert, with interdisciplinary tools and perspectives.

The impact of COVID-19 on antibiotic resistance and clinical outcomes among critically ill patients

BACKGROUND

There is conflicting evidence regarding the impact of the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on antimicrobial resistance, with few studies conducted in low- and middle-income countries. We investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on multidrug resistant organisms (MDROs) among critically ill patients and their clinical outcomes.

METHODS

This was a retrospective observational study of patients admitted to the medical Intensive Care Unit at Jordan University Hospital and had blood, urine, or bronchoalveolar bacterial cultures taken during 2 time periods: prepandemic (ie, 1/2016 to 1/2019) and pandemic (ie, 1/2020 to 1/2023). We compared the clinical outcomes (ie, in-hospital deaths, the need for O2 devices, intubation, the length of hospital stay, and the occurrence of complications) and prevalence of MDROs between the 2 periods and conducted multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

There were 1,254 patients (479 prepandemic and 775 postpandemic. The percentage of patients who had MDROs was significantly higher among patients with a culture taken during the pandemic (82.4%) compared to before it (17.6%) (P-value=.000). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that patients cultured during the pandemic were more than 3 times as likely to have an MDRO (odds ratio = 3.210; 95% confidence interval: 2.236-4.609).

CONCLUSIONS

The increase in MDROs during the COVID-19 pandemic is an alarming threat to public health; thus, investigating the antibiotic resistance situation as the pandemic subsides is crucial.

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Colonization in Intensive Care and Burn Units: A Narrative Review

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a common hospital-acquired pathogen and can cause a wide spectrum of infections. In recent years, MRSA has emerged as a significant public health concern, particularly in hospitals. Intensive care units (ICUs) and burn units are high-risk areas for hospital-acquired MRSA infections, which can lead to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. MRSA exhibits resistance to multiple antibiotics and can cause serious infections, including but not limited to pneumonia, endocarditis, and cutaneous infections, particularly in patients with burn injuries. The prevention and effective management of MRSA infections in both burn patients and those in ICUs is crucial, with strategies like isolation, regular disinfection, and prophylactic intranasal mupirocin. Early diagnosis of MRSA infection and isolation of patients is vital to prevent the spread of MRSA. Implementation of prevention strategies faces many challenges, such as cost, and the most successful infection management practices are still debated. This review has highlighted the substantial concern of MRSA colonization in intensive care and burn units. MRSA poses a significant risk to vulnerable patients, influenced by factors such as compromised immunity and invasive procedures. The prevalence of MRSA colonization varies, influenced by regional factors and infection control practices. Combating MRSA requires a multifaceted approach, including stringent infection control measures and education for healthcare workers and patients. As we move forward, continued research and cooperation are essential to reduce the burden of MRSA in these critical care settings.

Potential Use of a Combined Bacteriophage–Probiotic Sanitation System to Control Microbial Contamination and AMR in Healthcare Settings: A Pre-Post Intervention Study

Microbial contamination in the hospital environment is a major concern for public health, since it significantly contributes to the onset of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), which are further complicated by the alarming level of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) of HAI-associated pathogens. Chemical disinfection to control bioburden has a temporary effect and can favor the selection of resistant pathogens, as observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, probiotic-based sanitation (probiotic cleaning hygiene system, PCHS) was reported to stably abate pathogens, AMR, and HAIs. PCHS action is not rapid nor specific, being based on competitive exclusion, but the addition of lytic bacteriophages that quickly and specifically kill selected bacteria was shown to improve PCHS effectiveness. This study aimed to investigate the effect of such combined probiotic–phage sanitation (PCHSφ) in two Italian hospitals, targeting staphylococcal contamination. The results showed that PCHSφ could provide a significantly higher removal of staphylococci, including resistant strains, compared with disinfectants (−76%, p < 0.05) and PCHS alone (−50%, p < 0.05). Extraordinary sporadic chlorine disinfection appeared compatible with PCHSφ, while frequent routine chlorine usage inactivated the probiotic/phage components, preventing PCHSφ action. The collected data highlight the potential of a biological sanitation for better control of the infectious risk in healthcare facilities, without worsening pollution and AMR concerns.

A nudge intervention to improve hand hygiene compliance in the hospital

Hand hygiene among professionals plays a crucial role in preventing healthcare-associated infections, yet poor compliance in hospital settings remains a lasting reason for concern. Nudge theory is an innovative approach to behavioral change first developed in economics and cognitive psychology, and recently spread and discussed in clinical medicine. To assess a combined nudge intervention (localized dispensers, visual reminders, and gain-framed posters) to promote hand hygiene compliance among hospital personnel. A quasi-experimental study including a pre-intervention phase and a post-intervention phase (9 + 9 consecutive months) with 117 professionals overall from three wards in a 350-bed general city hospital. Hand hygiene compliance was measured using direct observations by trained personnel and measurement of alcohol-based hand-rub consumption. Levels of hand hygiene compliance were low in the pre-intervention phase: 11.44% of hand hygiene opportunities prescribed were fulfilled overall. We observed a statistically significant effect of the nudge intervention with an increase to 18.71% (p < 0.001) in the post-intervention phase. Improvement was observed in all experimental settings (the three hospital wards). A statistical comparison across three subsequent periods of the post-intervention phase revealed no significant decay of the effect. An assessment of the collected data on alcohol-based hand-rub consumption indirectly confirms the main result in all experimental settings. Behavioral outcomes concerning hand hygiene in the hospital are indeed affected by contextual, nudging factors to a significant extent. If properly devised, nudging measures can provide a sustainable contribution to increase hand hygiene compliance in a hospital setting.

A review of horses as a source of spreading livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus to human health

Livestock-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) was first discovered in horses in 1989. Since then, LA-MRSA has begun to be considered an important strain of pathogenic bacteria in horses, which can cause LA-MRSA infection and colonization in humans with public health impacts. The anterior nares are the primary site of LA-MRSA colonization in horses, although LA-MRSA colonization may also occur in the gastrointestinal tract in horses. LA-MRSA-infected horses typically exhibit clinical infection or may not exhibit clinical infection. There are two potential risks associated with LA-MRSA colonization in horses: The possibility of disease development in horses infected with LA-MRSA and the possibility of LA-MRSA transfer to humans and other horses. The diagnosis of LA-MRSA in horses can be made by conducting in vitro sensitivity testing for oxacillin and cefoxitin, and then followed by a molecular test using polymerase chain reaction. LA-MRSA transmission in animal hospitals and on farms is most likely due to contact with horses infected or colonized by LA-MRSA. The history of prior antibiotic administration, history of prior LA-MRSA colonization, and length of equine hospitalization were described as risk factors in cases of infection and colonization of LA-MRSA in horses. Nebulized antibiotics may be a viable alternative to use in horses, but nebulized antibiotics are only used in horses that are persistently colonized with LA-MRSA. Controlling the spread of LA-MRSA in horses can be done by regularly washing horses, eradicating vectors in horse stalls such as rats, and maintaining the cleanliness of the stable and animal hospital environment. Meanwhile, cleaning hands, using gloves, and donning protective clothes are ways that humans can prevent the transmission of LA-MRSA when handling horses. This review will explain the definition of LA-MRSA in general, LA-MRSA in horses, the epi­demiology of LA-MRSA in horses, the diagnosis of LA-MRSA in horses, the transmission of LA-MRSA in horses, risk factors for spreading LA-MRSA in horses, public health impact, treatment of LA-MRSA infection in horses, and control of the spread of LA-MRSA in horses.

Massive Spread of OXA-48 Carbapenemase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae in the Environment of a Swiss Companion Animal Clinic

Background: Companion animal clinics contribute to the spread of antimicrobial resistant microorganisms (ARM) and outbreaks with ARM of public health concern have been described. Methods: As part of a project to assess infection prevention and control (IPC) standards in companion animal clinics in Switzerland, a total of 200 swabs from surfaces and 20 hand swabs from employees were collected during four days in a medium-sized clinic and analyzed for extended spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-E), carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE), vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), and methicillin-resistant staphylococci (MRS). Results: A total of 22 (11.0%) environmental specimen yielded CPE, 14 (7.0%) ESBL-E, and 7 (3.5%) MRS; MR Staphylococcus aureus were isolated from two (10.0%) hand swabs. The CPE isolates comprised Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter hormaechei, Citrobacter braakii, and Serratia marcescens. Whole genome sequencing revealed that all CPE carried closely related bla_OXA-48 plasmids, suggesting a plasmidic spread within the clinic. The clinic exhibited major deficits in surface disinfection, hand hygiene infrastructure, and hand hygiene compliance. CPE were present in various areas, including those without patient contact. The study documented plasmidic dissemination of bla_OXA-48 in a companion animal clinic with low IPC standards. This poses a worrisome threat to public health and highlights the need to foster IPC standards in veterinary clinics to prevent the spread of ARM into the community.

Pathogen Control in the Built Environment: A Probiotic-Based System as a Remedy for the Spread of Antibiotic Resistance

The high and sometimes inappropriate use of disinfectants and antibiotics has led to alarming levels of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and to high water and hearth pollution, which today represent major threats for public health. Furthermore, the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has deeply influenced our sanitization habits, imposing the massive use of chemical disinfectants potentially exacerbating both concerns. Moreover, super-sanitation can profoundly influence the environmental microbiome, potentially resulting counterproductive when trying to stably eliminate pathogens. Instead, environmentally friendly procedures based on microbiome balance principles, similar to what applied to living organisms, may be more effective, and probiotic-based eco-friendly sanitation has been consistently reported to provide stable reduction of both pathogens and AMR in treated-environments, compared to chemical disinfectants. Here, we summarize the results of the studies performed in healthcare settings, suggesting that such an approach may be applied successfully also to non-healthcare environments, including the domestic ones, based on its effectiveness, safety, and negligible environmental impact.

Excess mortality attributable to antimicrobial-resistant bacterial bloodstream infection at a tertiary-care hospital in Indonesia

The burden of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) infections in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) is largely unknown. Here, we evaluate attributable mortality of AMR infections in Indonesia. We used routine databases of the microbiology laboratory and hospital admission at Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo Hospital, a tertiary-care hospital in South Sulawesi from 2015 to 2018. Of 77,752 hospitalized patients, 8,341 (10.7%) had at least one blood culture taken. Among patients with bacteriologically confirmed bloodstream infections (BSI), the proportions of patients with AMR BSI were 78% (81/104) for third-generation cephalosporin-resistant (3GCR) Escherichia coli, 4% (4/104) for 3GCR plus carbapenem-resistant E. coli, 56% (96/171) for 3GCR Klebsiella pneumoniae, 25% (43/171) for 3GCR plus carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae, 51% (124/245) for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, 48% (82/171) for carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter spp., and 19% (13/68) for carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Observed in-hospital mortality of patients with AMR BSI was 49.7% (220/443). Compared with patients with antimicrobial-susceptible BSI and adjusted for potential confounders, the excess mortality attributable to AMR BSI was -0.01 (95% CI: -15.4, 15.4) percentage points. Compared with patients without a BSI with a target pathogen and adjusted for potential confounders, the excess mortality attributable to AMR BSI was 29.7 (95%CI: 26.1, 33.2) percentage points. This suggests that if all the AMR BSI were replaced by no infection, 130 (95%CI: 114, 145) deaths among 443 patients with AMR BSI might have been prevented. In conclusion, the burden of AMR infections in Indonesian hospitals is likely high. Similar large-scale evaluations should be performed across LMICs to inform interventions to mitigate AMR-associated mortality.

Surveillance and prevalence of antimicrobial resistant bacteria from public settings within urban built environments: Challenges and opportunities for hygiene and infection control

Antimicrobial resistant (AMR) bacteria present one of the biggest threats to public health; this must not be forgotten while global attention is focussed on the COVID-19 pandemic. Resistant bacteria have been demonstrated to be transmittable to humans in many different environments, including public settings in urban built environments where high-density human activity can be found, including public transport, sports arenas and schools. However, in comparison to healthcare settings and agriculture, there is very little surveillance of AMR in the built environment outside of healthcare settings and wastewater. In this review, we analyse the existing literature to aid our understanding of what surveillance has been conducted within different public settings and identify what this tells us about the prevalence of AMR. We highlight the challenges that have been reported; and make recommendations for future studies that will help to fill knowledge gaps present in the literature.

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus: An Update on Prevention and Control in Acute Care Settings

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a leading cause of health-care-associated infections. Controversies regarding the effectiveness of various control strategies have contributed to varying approaches to MRSA control. However, new evidence from large-scale studies has emerged, particularly concerning screening and decolonization. Importantly, implementation and outcomes of control measures in practice are not only influenced by scientific evidence, but also economic, administrative, and political factors, as demonstrated by decreasing MRSA rates in a number of countries after concerted and coordinated efforts at a national level. Flexibility to adapt measures based on local epidemiology and resources is essential for successful MRSA control.

Hand Hygiene Evaluation Using Two Different Evaluation Tools and Hand Contamination of Veterinary Healthcare Workers in a Swiss Companion Animal Clinic

Hand hygiene (HH) is the most important measure to prevent nosocomial infections. HH compliance in companion animal clinics has been reported to be poor. The present study compared an online application with the WHO evaluation form to assess the WHO five moments of HH in a Swiss companion animal clinic. In 202 hand swabs from 87 staff members, total viable count (TVC) before and after patient contact was evaluated and the swabs were tested for selected antimicrobial resistant microorganisms of public health importance. HH compliance (95% confidence interval) was 36.6% (33.8–39.5%) and was similar when assessed with the two evaluation tools. HH differed between hospital areas (p = 0.0035) and HH indications (p < 0.0001). Gloves were worn in 22.0% (18.0–26.6%) of HH observations and were indicated in 37.2% (27.3–48.3%) of these observations. Mean TVC before patient contact was lower (0.52 log CFU/cm²) than after patient contact (1.02 log CFU/cm²) but was similar before patient contact on gloved and ungloved hands. Three hand swabs (1.5% (0.4–4.3%)) were positive for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Gloving should not be regarded as a substitute for HH. Overall, HH in companion animal medicine should urgently be fostered.

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the surveillance of antimicrobial resistance

Background

The impact of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major concern.

Aim

To compare the number of patients and isolation rate of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria before and after the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic using the comprehensive national surveillance data.

Methods

We utilized comprehensive surveillance data, collected in the Japan Nosocomial Infections Surveillance programme, which included a total of 16.7 million samples of 5.9 million tested patients from >1300 hospitals. We compared the number of patients and isolation rate of five bacteria between 2019 and 2020, including antimicrobial-susceptible and -resistant bacteria of Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Findings

The number of patients and isolation rate of S. aureus and meticillin-resistant S. aureus decreased slightly; those of S. pneumoniae and penicillin-resistant S. pneumoniae decreased by 60%; and those of third-generation cephalosporin-resistant K. pneumoniae increased. The isolation rate of the remaining bacteria apparently increased, although the number of patients decreased. This was due to a substantial decrease in the total number of tested patients (the denominator of the isolation rate), which was larger than that of the number of patients (the numerator of the isolation rate). Consistent results were obtained when the same data were re-aggregated using the procedure of the World Health Organization Global Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance System, demonstrating the general importance of this problem.

Conclusion

Surveillance data during the COVID-19 pandemic must be carefully interpreted based on examination of the numerator, denominator and background factors that affect the denominator.

High Prevalence of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus among Healthcare Facilities and Its Related Factors in Myanmar (2018-2019)

BACKGROUND

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health problem. Staphylococcus aureus (SA) is a common bacterium associated with a variety of community and hospital infections. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) accounts for most SA related morbidity and mortality. In this study, we determined the prevalence and factors associated with SA and MRSA in Myanmar.

METHODS

We collected the data retrospectively by reviewing an electronic register containing the results of bacterial culture and antibiotic susceptibility testing of biological specimens received from healthcare facilities during 2018-2019.

RESULTS

Of the 37,798 biological specimens with bacterial culture growth, 22% (8244) were Gram-positive. Among the Gram-positive bacteria, 42% (2801) were SA, of which 48% (1331) were judged as MRSA by phenotypic methods. The prevalence of MRSA was higher in the older age groups, in female patients, in urine specimens and specimens received from the intensive care unit and dermatology departments. One site (Site F) had the highest MRSA prevalence of the seven AMR sentinel sites. Most SA isolates were sensitive to vancomycin (90%) by phenotypic methods.

CONCLUSIONS

The high prevalence of MRSA indicates a major public health threat. There is an urgent need to strengthen the AMR surveillance and hospital infection control program in Myanmar.

What Is Driving the Epidemiology of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infections in Europe?

Introduction: The burden from infections caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA) has increased in recent years, especially in the higher prevalence southern and eastern countries. Addressing this challenge requires a clear knowledge of the factors driving this epidemiology to inform effective national interventions and campaigns. Methods: We identified national quality metrics for antibiotic use and hand hygiene from the 2016/2017 European Centre for Disease Control (ECDC) Point Prevalence study as well as structural, cultural, and governance indicators from other sources. We then utilized general linear modeling to identify parsimonious correlations with national MRSA proportions reported by the European Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Network (EARS-Net). Results: The main process predictor of MRSA prevalence in EU/EEA countries was the use of more than one concurrent antibiotic per patient. The impact of hand hygiene was less clear, possibly because consumption of alcohol hand-rub was suboptimal throughout Europe. Hospital and infection control structural factors did not appear relevant at overall national level. Culture and governance were collectively key predictor groups; uncertainty avoidance, masculinity, and corruption indices strongly correlated with MRSA prevalence. Discussion: Our results suggest that the critical antibiotic stewardship factor associated with MRSA in EU/EEA countries is the quality of antibiotic prescribing, especially spectrum of activity, rather than overall consumption levels in hospitals or proportion of patients treated. Above all, MRSA hyperendemicity is correlated with a set of sociocultural behavioral constructs that typically manifest themselves in lack of urgency to address risk and normalization of deviance in relation to noncompliant practices.

Acquisition Risk Factors of the SCCmec IX-Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Swine Production Personnel in Chiang Mai and Lamphun Provinces, Thailand

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) harboring the type-IX staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) has been found in pigs and humans in Northern Thailand. However, knowledge of the prevalence and acquisition risk factors of this MRSA strain among swine production personnel (SPP) are needed. The nasal swab samples and data were collected from 202 voluntary SPP and 31 swine farms in Chiang Mai and Lamphun Provinces, Thailand in 2017. MRSA were screened and identified using mannitol salt agar, biochemical and antimicrobial susceptibility testing, multiplex PCR, and the SCCmec typing. The prevalence of MRSA was 7.9% (16/202) and 19.3% (6/31) among SPP and swine farms. All isolates were multidrug-resistant, and 55 of 59 isolates (93%) contained the type-IX SCCmec element. Data analysis indicated that education, working time, contact frequency, working solely with swine production, and personal hygiene were significantly related to MRSA acquisition (p < 0.05). The multivariate analysis revealed that pig farming experience, working days, and showering were good predictors for MRSA carriage among SPP (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.84). The biosecurity protocols and tetracycline use were significantly associated with MRSA detection in pig farms (p < 0.05). Hence, the active surveillance of MRSA and further development of local/national intervention for MRSA control are essential.

Prevalence and molecular characterizations of Staphylococcus aureus nasal colonization among patients in pediatric intensive care units in Taiwan

Background

Nasal colonization of Staphylococcus aureus is a risk factor for the pathogen transmission and the development of infections. Limited information is available on the prevalence and molecular characteristics of S. aureus colonization in pediatric intensive care unit (ICU) patients.

Methods

A cross-sectional, island-wide study was conducted in 2011. Nasal swabs were collected from pediatric ICU patients at six tertiary hospitals in Taiwan.

Results

Of 114 patients enrolled in total, nasal colonization of S. arueus was detected in 30 (26.3%) of them, among whom 20 (17.5%) with methicillin-resistant S. arueus (MRSA). The ST59/SCCmec IV and V clones were most common and accounted for 45% of MRSA isolates, followed by ST239/SCCmec III (25%) and ST45/SCCmec IV (20%) clones. Three ST59 MRSA isolates carried the Panton-Valentine Leukocidin genes.

Conclusions

The results indicated a high prevalence of S. arueus and MRSA nasal colonization among pediatric ICU patients in Taiwan. Identification of epidemic clones warrants the implement of infection control measures to reduce colonization and prevent the dissemination of MRSA in hospitals.

Think before you prescribe: how dentistry contributes to antibiotic resistance

Antibiotic resistance presents a daunting challenge to health professionals worldwide and has the potential to create major problems for modern health care, resulting in more medical expenditure, extended hospital stays and increased morbidity and mortality. Advanced genome sequencing technologies present a complex picture of resistance, extending our understanding beyond the pharmacotherapeutic interface between pathogens and antibiotics. This review discusses the global scope and scale of antibiotic resistance and contextualizes it for the dental practitioner, emphasizing the role we must play in limiting the progression of resistance through antibiotic stewardship and disease prevention.

Homelessness, Personal Hygiene, and MRSA Nasal Colonization among Persons Who Inject Drugs

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection is a leading cause of hospitalization and medical visits among individuals experiencing homelessness and also among persons who inject drugs (PWID), populations with significant overlap in urban centers in the USA. While injection drug use is a risk factor for MRSA skin infections, MRSA is also known to transmit easily in crowded, public locations in which individuals have reduced personal hygiene. Individuals in urban centers who experience homelessness or drug addiction may spend significant amounts of time in environments where MRSA can be easily transmitted, and may also experience reduced access to facilities to maintain personal hygiene. We assessed the relationship between homelessness, personal hygiene, and MRSA nasal colonization, a proxy for MRSA infection risk, in a study of PWID in Boston, MA (n = 78). Sleeping in a homeless shelter for at least one night in the last 3 months was significantly associated with MRSA nasal colonization (OR 3.0; p = 0.02; 95% CI 1.2, 7.6). Sleeping at more than one place during the last week (considered a metric of elevated housing instability) was also associated with a threefold increase in odds of MRSA nasal colonization (OR 3.1; p = 0.01; 95% CI 1.3, 7.6). MRSA nasal colonization was strongly associated with use of public showers (OR 13.7; p = 0.02; 95% CI 1.4, 132.8), although few people in this study (4 of 78) reported using these public facilities. Sharing bedding with other people was also associated with increased risk of MRSA colonization (OR 2.2; p = 0.05; 95% CI 1.0-4.7). No associations between hand hygiene, frequency of bathing or clothes laundering, or street sleeping were observed. Use of public facilities supporting persons experiencing homelessness and housing instability, including shelters and public showers, is associated with an increased risk of MRSA nasal colonization in this study. Personal hygiene behaviors appear less associated with MRSA nasal colonization. Environmental assessments of MRSA contamination in homeless shelters and public sanitation facilities are warranted so as to inform appropriate intervention activities.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in solid organ transplantation-Guidelines from the American Society of Transplantation Infectious Diseases Community of Practice

These updated guidelines from the American Society of Transplantation Infectious Diseases Community of Practice review the epidemiology, diagnosis, prevention, and management of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections in solid organ transplantation. Despite an increasing armamentarium of antimicrobials active against MRSA, improved diagnostic tools, and overall declining rates of infection, MRSA infections remain a substantial cause of morbidity and mortality in solid organ transplant recipients. Pre- and post-transplant MRSA colonization is a significant risk factor for post-transplant MRSA infection. The preferred initial treatment of MRSA bacteremia remains vancomycin. Hand hygiene, chlorhexidine bathing in the ICU, central-line bundles that focus on reducing unnecessary catheter use, disinfection of patient equipment, and the environment along with antimicrobial stewardship are all aspects of an infection prevention approach to prevent MRSA transmission and decrease healthcare-associated infections.

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria on personal devices in hospital intensive care units: Molecular approaches to quantifying and describing changes in the bacterial community of personal mobile devices

Bacterial community composition and presence of antibiotic resistance genes (mecA, tetK, and vanA) on personal mobile devices (PMDs) of nurses in intensive care units (ICUs) were evaluated. Antibiotic resistance genes on PMDs decreased at the end of the shift, and a several microbial genera changed.

Decreased Prevalence of qacA-Positive Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Hospitalized Patients in Tokyo, Japan

Presence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains carrying plasmid-borne multidrug efflux pump-encoding gene, qacA/B, is a serious issue for infection control in hospitals, because they can survive hand hygiene. The qacA/B genes are divided into five subtypes: qacA, qacBI, qacBII, qacBIII, and qacBIV. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of hospitalized patients infected by respective qacA/B-positive MRSA strains between 2010 and 2016 in Tokyo, Japan. Of the 600 total MRSA strains observed, the qacA/B-positive strains constituted 19.8% (199 isolates), of which 56.8% (113 isolates), 28.6% (57 isolates), and 14.6% (29 isolates) were classified as qacA, qacBIII, and qacBII-positive strains, respectively. The prevalence of qacA-positive MRSA strains significantly decreased from July 2010 to June 2011 (34.0%) to July 2015 to May 2016 (5.3%) (p < 0.05). When staphylococcal cassette chromosome (SCC)mec types of the respective qacA/B-positive strains were determined, 81.4% of the qacA-positive strains were classified into SCCmec type II, which has recently been decreasing in hospital-acquired MRSA in Japan. Risk factor analysis showed that there were no specific clinical departments associated with the presence of qacA-positive strains. Our findings suggest that change in the MRSA clonal lineages impact to decrease the prevalence of qacA-positive strains in Japanese hospitals.

Everybody hands-on to avoid ESKAPE: effect of sustained hand hygiene compliance on healthcare-associated infections and multidrug resistance in a paediatric hospital

PURPOSE

Hand hygiene is the most important strategy for preventing healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs); however, the impact of hand hygiene in middle-income countries has been poorly described. In this work, we describe the impact of the programme 'Let's Go for 100' on hand hygiene adherence, HCAIs rates and multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, including the molecular typing of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains.

METHODOLOGY

A multimodal, hospital-wide hand hygiene programme was implemented from 2013. 'Let's Go for 100' involved all healthcare workers and encompassed education, awareness, visual reminders, feedback and innovative strategies. Monthly hand hygiene monitoring and active HCAI surveillance were performed in every ward. Molecular typing of MRSA was analysed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE).Results/Key findings. Hand hygiene adherence increased from 34.9 % during the baseline period to 80.6 % in the last 3 months of this study. The HCAI rate decreased from 7.54 to 6.46/1000 patient-days (P=0.004). The central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSIs) rate fell from 4.84 to 3.66/1000 central line-days (P=0.05). Negative correlations between hand hygiene and HCAIs rates were identified. The attack rate of MDR-ESKAPE group bloodstream infections decreased from 0.54 to 0.20/100 discharges (P=0.024). MRSA pulsotypes that were prevalent during the baseline period were no longer detected after the 5^th quarter, although new strains were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

A multimodal hand hygiene programme in a paediatric hospital in a middle-income country was effective in improving adherence and reducing HCAIs, CLABSIs and MDR-ESKAPE bloodstream infections. Sustaining hand hygiene adherence at a level of >60 % for one year limited MRSA clonal transmission.

A Survey of Nurses' Compliance with Hand Hygiene Guidelines in Caring for Patients with Cancer in a Selected Center of Isfahan, Iran, in 2016

Background

Hand hygiene is one of the key ways of preventing healthcare-associated infections (HCAI), especially in patients with cancer. The aim of this study was to determine nurses' compliance with hand hygiene guidelines in caring for patients with cancer in a selected center in Isfahan, Iran, in 2016.

Materials and Methods

The present observational study was conducted on nurses in a cancer center in Isfahan in 2016. The participants were selected via convenience sampling method. Nurses serving at bedsides and willing to participate were entered into the study. Data were collected through the direct observation of nurses during delivering routine care, using the standard checklist for direct observation of the "five moments for hand hygiene" approach.

Results

In the present study, 94 nurses were studied at 500 clinical moments. The overall hand hygiene compliance rate was 12.80%. The highest hand hygiene compliance rate was observed in the after body fluid exposure moment (72.70%). In addition, hand hygiene compliance rate in preprocedure indications (before patient contact and before aseptic procedure) and postprocedure indications (after patient contact, after body fluid exposure, and after patient surrounding contact) were 3.40 and 21%, respectively, which had a significant correlation (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

The findings indicate that the hand hygiene compliance rate among nurses was low. Further research in this regard is recommended in order to find the causes of low compliance with hand hygiene and design interventions for improvement in hand hygiene compliance rate among nurses.

Control of healthcare- and community-associated MRSA: recent progress and persisting challenges

BACKGROUND

Healthcare adapted meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has spread to hospitals around the world over 50 years. More recently, other strains of MRSA have emerged with the ability to spread in the community and infect otherwise healthy individuals. Morbidity and mortality associated with MRSA remains high and its control in both the healthcare and community setting has proven challenging.

SOURCES OF DATA

Pubmed (Medline).

AREAS OF AGREEMENT

The use of targeted screening and decolonization, hand hygiene and antimicrobial stewardship is supported by the most robust studies, though many studies have implemented bundles for effective healthcare-associated (HA)-MRSA control.

AREAS OF CONTENTION

Universal screening, universal decolonization and contact precautions for HA-MRSA control are supported by less evidence. Some interventions may not be cost-effective. Contact precautions may be associated with potential for patient harm. Evidence for effective control community acquired (CA)-MRSA is largely lacking.

GROWING POINTS

Programmes that focus on implementing bundles of interventions aimed at targeting HA-MRSA are more likely to be effective, with an emphasis on hand hygiene as a key component. Control of CA-MRSA is likely to be more difficult to achieve and relies on prevalence, risk factors and community healthcare interactions on a broader scale.

AREAS TIMELY FOR DEVELOPING RESEARCH

Further research in the area of CA-MRSA in particular is required. Antimicrobial stewardship for both CA and HA-MRSA is promising, as is the role of whole genome sequencing in characterizing transmission. However, further work is required to assess their long-term roles in controlling MRSA. With many institutions applying widespread use of chlorhexidine washes, monitoring for chlorhexidine resistance is paramount to sustaining efforts at controlling MRSA.

Implications of asymptomatic carriers for infectious disease transmission and control

For infectious pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae, some hosts may carry the pathogen and transmit it to others, yet display no symptoms themselves. These asymptomatic carriers contribute to the spread of disease but go largely undetected and can therefore undermine efforts to control transmission. Understanding the natural history of carriage and its relationship to disease is important for the design of effective interventions to control transmission. Mathematical models of infectious diseases are frequently used to inform decisions about control and should therefore accurately capture the role played by asymptomatic carriers. In practice, incorporating asymptomatic carriers into models is challenging due to the sparsity of direct evidence. This absence of data leads to uncertainty in estimates of model parameters and, more fundamentally, in the selection of an appropriate model structure. To assess the implications of this uncertainty, we systematically reviewed published models of carriage and propose a new model of disease transmission with asymptomatic carriage. Analysis of our model shows how different assumptions about the role of asymptomatic carriers can lead to different conclusions about the transmission and control of disease. Critically, selecting an inappropriate model structure, even when parameters are correctly estimated, may lead to over- or under-estimates of intervention effectiveness. Our results provide a more complete understanding of the role of asymptomatic carriers in transmission and highlight the importance of accurately incorporating carriers into models used to make decisions about disease control.

Using environmental engineering to increase hand hygiene compliance: a cross-over study protocol

INTRODUCTION

Compliance with hand hygiene recommendations in hospital is typically less than 50%. Such low compliance inevitably contributes to hospital-acquired infections that negatively affect patients' well-being and hospitals' finances. The design of the present study is predicated on the assumption that most people who fail to clean their hands are not doing so intentionally, they just forget. The present study will test whether psychological priming can be used to increase the number of people who clean their hands on entering a ward. Here, we present the protocol for this study.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The study will use a randomised cross-over design. During the study, each of four wards will be observed during four conditions: olfactory prime, visual prime, both primes and neither prime. Each condition will be experienced for 42 days followed by a 7-day washout period (total duration of trial=189 days). We will record the number of people who enter each ward and whether they clean their hands during observation sessions, the amount of cleaning material used from the dispensers each week and the number of hospital-acquired infections that occur in each period. The outcomes will be compared using a regression analysis. Following the initial trail, the most effective priming condition will be rolled out for 3 months in all the wards.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Research ethics approval was obtained from the South Central-Oxford C Research Ethics Committee (16/SC/0554), the Health Regulatory Authority and the sponsor.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN (15397624); Edge ID 86357.

Prevention and Control of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Acute Care Settings

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a leading cause of health care-associated infections worldwide. Controversies with regard to the effectiveness of various MRSA control strategies have contributed to varying approaches to the control of this pathogen in different settings. However, new evidence from large-scale studies has emerged, particularly with regards to MRSA screening and decolonization strategies, which will inform future control practices. The implementation as well as outcomes of control measures in the real world is not only influenced by scientific evidence but also depends on economic, administrative, governmental, and political influences.

Incidence, prevalence, and management of MRSA bacteremia across patient populations-a review of recent developments in MRSA management and treatment

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection is still a major global healthcare problem. Of concern is S. aureus bacteremia, which exhibits high rates of morbidity and mortality and can cause metastatic or complicated infections such as infective endocarditis or sepsis. MRSA is responsible for most global S. aureus bacteremia cases, and compared with methicillin-sensitive S. aureus, MRSA infection is associated with poorer clinical outcomes. S. aureus virulence is affected by the unique combination of toxin and immune-modulatory gene products, which may differ by geographic location and healthcare- or community-associated acquisition. Management of S. aureus bacteremia involves timely identification of the infecting strain and source of infection, proper choice of antibiotic treatment, and robust prevention strategies. Resistance and nonsusceptibility to first-line antimicrobials combined with a lack of equally effective alternatives complicates MRSA bacteremia treatment. This review describes trends in epidemiology and factors that influence the incidence of MRSA bacteremia. Current and developing diagnostic tools, treatments, and prevention strategies are also discussed.

An automated hand hygiene compliance system is associated with improved monitoring of hand hygiene

BACKGROUND

Consistent hand hygiene is key to reducing health care-associated infections (HAIs) and assessing compliance with hand hygiene protocols is vital for hospital infection control staff. A new automated hand hygiene compliance system (HHCS) was trialed as an alternative to human observers in an intensive care unit and an intensive care stepdown unit at a hospital facility in the northeastern United States.

METHODS

Using a retrospective cohort design, researchers investigated whether implementation of the HHCS resulted in improved hand hygiene compliance and a reduction in common HAI rates. Pearson χ² tests were used to assess changes in compliance, and incidence rate ratios were used to test for significant differences in infection rates.

RESULTS

During the study period, the HHCS collected many more hand hygiene events compared with human observers (632,404 vs 480) and ensured that the hospital met its compliance goals (95%+). Although decreases in multidrug-resistant organisms, central line-associated bloodstream infections, and catheter-associated urinary tract infection rates were observed, they represented nonsignificant differences.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

Human hand hygiene observers may not report accurate measures of compliance. The HHCS is a promising new tool for fine-grained assessment of hand hygiene compliance. Further study is needed to examine the association between the HHCS and HAI rate reduction.

Impact of a hand hygiene campaign in a tertiary hospital in South Korea on the rate of hospital-onset methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia and economic evaluation of the campaign

BACKGROUND

Hand hygiene (HH) is the most important factor affecting health care-associated infections.

METHODS

We introduced a World Health Organization HH campaign in October 2010. The monthly procurement of hand sanitizers per 1,000 patient days was calculated, and the monthly incidence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (MRSAB), classified into community- and hospital-onset (HO), was measured from a microbiologic laboratory database. Trends of MRSAB incidence were assessed using Bayesian structural time series models. A cost-benefit analysis was also performed based on the economic burden of HO MRSAB in Korea.

RESULTS

Procurement of hand sanitizers increased 134% after the intervention (95% confidence interval [CI], 120%-149%), compared with the preintervention period (January 2008-September 2010). In the same manner, HH compliance improved from 33.2% in September 2010 to 92.2% after the intervention. The incidence of HO MRSAB per 100,000 patient days decreased 33% (95% CI, -57% to -7.8%) after the intervention. Because there was a calculated reduction of 65 HO MRSAB cases during the intervention period, the benefit outweighed the cost (total benefit [$851,565]/total cost [$167,495] = 5.08).

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of the HH campaign led to increased compliance and significantly reduced HO MRSAB incidence; it was also cost saving.

[A multimodal strategy to improve adherence to hand hygiene in a university hospital]

OBJECTIVE

Within the framework of the PaSQ (Patient Safety and Quality care) Project, this hospital decided to implement a multifaceted hospital-wide Hand Hygiene (HH) intervention based on a multimodal WHO approach over one year, focusing on achieving a sustained change in HH cultural change in this hospital.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Setting: University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Santander (Spain), a tertiary hospital with 900 beds. Intervention period: 2014. An action plan was developed that included the implementation of activities in each component of the 5-step multimodal intervention. An observation/feedback methodology was used that included the provision of performance and results feedback to the staff. A 3/3 strategy (non-blinded direct observation audits performed during 3 randomised days every 3 weeks with pro-active corrective actions at the end of each observation period). HH compliance, alcohol-based hand-rub (ABHR) consumption, and rate of MRSA infection, were monitored during the intervention.

RESULTS

Hospital ABHR consumption increased during the study period: from 17.5 to 19.7mL/patient-days. In the intervention units, this consumption was 24.8mL pre-intervention, 42.5mL during the intervention, and 30.4mL two months post-intervention. There were 137 evaluation periods in 30 different days, in which a total of 737 health-care workers were observed and 1,870 HH opportunities. HH compliance was 54.5%, ranging between 44.8% and 69.9%. The incidence of MRSA infection decreased during the intervention in the selected units, from 13.2 infections per 10,000 patient-days pre-intervention to 5.7 three months post-intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Our HH strategy, supported by a 3/3 strategy increased alcohol-based hand-rub consumption and compliance. A reduction in MRSA infections was observed.

Wearable Sensors for eLearning of Manual Tasks: Using Forearm EMG in Hand Hygiene Training

In this paper, we propose a novel approach to eLearning that makes use of smart wearable sensors. Traditional eLearning supports the remote and mobile learning of mostly theoretical knowledge. Here we discuss the possibilities of eLearning to support the training of manual skills. We employ forearm armbands with inertial measurement units and surface electromyography sensors to detect and analyse the user’s hand motions and evaluate their performance. Hand hygiene is chosen as the example activity, as it is a highly standardized manual task that is often not properly executed. The World Health Organization guidelines on hand hygiene are taken as a model of the optimal hygiene procedure, due to their algorithmic structure. Gesture recognition procedures based on artificial neural networks and hidden Markov modeling were developed, achieving recognition rates of 98.30% (±1.26%) for individual gestures. Our approach is shown to be promising for further research and application in the mobile eLearning of manual skills.

Importance of Multifaceted Approaches in Infection Control: A Practical Experience from an Outbreak Investigation

BACKGROUND

This study presents the results of a multidisciplinary, nosocomial MRSA outbreak investigation in an 8-bed medical intensive care unit (ICU). The identification of seven MRSA positive patients in the beginning of 2014 led to the closure of the ward for several weeks. A multidisciplinary, retrospective investigation was initiated in order to identify the reason and the source for the outbreak, describe MRSA transmission in the department and identify limitations in infection control.

METHODS

The investigation comprised an epidemiological description of MRSA cases from 2012 to 2014 and a characterization of MRSA isolates, including phage-, spa- and PFGE-typing. Additionally, MRSA screening was performed from the hospital staff and the environment. To identify the reason for the outbreak, work-related, psychological and behavioral factors were investigated by impartial audits and staff interviews.

RESULTS

Thirty-one MRSA cases were registered during the study period, and 36 isolates were investigated. Molecular typing determined the outbreak strain (phage type 54/812, PFGE type A4, spa type t003) and identified the probable index case. Nasal carriage in one employee and a high environmental contamination with the outbreak strain was documented. Important gaps in nursing procedures and general management were identified. Elevated stress levels and communication problems preceded the outbreak. Compliance with hand hygiene and isolation procedures was evaluated as appropriate.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates the complexity of controlling hospital-associated infections. The combined use of different typing methods is beneficial for outbreak investigations. Psychological, behavioral and other work-related factors have an important impact on the spread of nosocomial pathogens. These factors should be addressed and integrated in routine infection control practice.

Gender differences in rates of carriage and bloodstream infection caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus: are they real, do they matter and why?

There is increasing interest in sexual and gender dimorphism in disease. We reviewed the epidemiology of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) carriage and bloodstream infection (BSI), which shows a male predominance, and explored some of the possible reasons. Males are more prone to bacterial sepsis, but some studies suggest females may have a poorer prognosis from BSI. Hand-hygiene behavior varies according to gender. Males are less compliant, which in turn may predispose them to higher colonization and infection rates. Female hormones such as estrogen affect the expression of virulence factors in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and although not studied, this may also apply to S. aureus. Further research is required on the relationship between gender and risk of infection, the reasons for higher MRSA carriage and BSI rates in males, the value of gender-specific infection prevention campaigns, and other factors such as the possible role of contact sports and occupation.