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Cross-infection by non-encapsulated Haemophilus influenzae
J Gough1, W A Kraak, E C Anderson
1Department of Microbiology, Birch Hill Hospital, Rochdale, UK.
Lancet (London, England)
|July 21, 1990
Summary
A spirometer likely caused cross-infection in 18 patients with ampicillin-resistant Haemophilus influenzae. This strain, identified by its protein profile, spread within a hospital ward, highlighting a potential iatrogenic source.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Hospital Epidemiology
Background:
- An outbreak of ampicillin-resistant beta-lactamase-producing Haemophilus influenzae occurred.
- The infections affected patients in an acute medical chest ward.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the source and characteristics of the Haemophilus influenzae outbreak.
- To investigate the potential iatrogenic transmission route.
Main Methods:
- Isolates were characterized by biotype and cell envelope protein profiles using sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.
- Environmental samples were collected and analyzed.
- Epidemiological data was reviewed to identify common factors among infected patients.
Main Results:
- All 18 Haemophilus influenzae isolates were non-encapsulated, biotype III, and exhibited identical protein profiles.
- The organism was not detected in environmental samples.
- Circumstantial evidence implicated a spirometer as a common iatrogenic source of cross-infection.
Conclusions:
- A specific strain of Haemophilus influenzae was responsible for the outbreak.
- A contaminated spirometer is a probable source of iatrogenic cross-infection in this hospital setting.
- This highlights the importance of device disinfection in preventing healthcare-associated infections.