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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
14:04
Biosensor for Detection of Antibiotic Resistant Staphylococcus Bacteria
Published on: May 8, 2013
Can methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus be found in an ambulance fleet?
Chad E Roline1, Christina Crumpecker, Thomas M Dunn
1Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC 20007, USA. cer28@georgetown.edu
Prehospital Emergency Care
|April 25, 2007
Summary
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was found in nearly half of ambulances surveyed, indicating a potential contamination risk. This highlights the need for enhanced cleaning protocols in emergency medical services (EMS) vehicles.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant public health concern.
- Healthcare environments are known reservoirs for MRSA transmission.
- The potential for MRSA contamination in emergency medical services (EMS) vehicles is not well-established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct an initial screening for MRSA contamination within an ambulance fleet.
- To assess the prevalence of MRSA in emergency medical services (EMS) vehicles.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted in June 2006.
- Samples were collected from five distinct areas in 21 ambulances (n=105).
- Dacron swabs and mannitol salt agar with oxacillin were used for MRSA detection.
Main Results:
- MRSA contamination was detected in 10 out of 21 ambulances (47.6%).
- Thirteen positive samples were isolated from the tested fleet.
- A significant prevalence of MRSA was observed in the sampled ambulances.
Conclusions:
- Ambulances may harbor substantial MRSA contamination.
- EMS vehicles could serve as reservoirs for MRSA transmission.
- Further investigation into MRSA screening and disinfection in ambulances is warranted.
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