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Nonoutbreak-related airborne Staphylococcus spp in a veterinary hospital

Eric A Lutz1, Armando E Hoet, Michael Pennell

  • 1Division of Community, Environment, and Policy, Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.

American Journal of Infection Control
|January 17, 2013
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Airborne methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus species (MRS) and methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus species (MSS) were detected in a veterinary hospital. Airborne MRS levels were linked to human activity and specific hospital areas, like hallways.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental microbiology
  • Nosocomial infection surveillance
  • Veterinary public health

Background:

  • Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus species (MRS), including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), are significant nosocomial pathogens.
  • This study investigated airborne MRS and MSS in a veterinary teaching hospital during periods without known active Staphylococci infections.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of airborne MRS and MSS in a veterinary teaching hospital.
  • To identify factors associated with airborne MRS and MSS, specifically functional area and human activity levels.

Main Methods:

  • Airborne MRS and MRSA samples were collected from 10 hospital areas over 3 months.
  • Sampling occurred twice daily (daytime and evening) at each location.
  • Hospital staff activity levels were surveyed across sampled areas.

Main Results:

  • Airborne MSS was found in 52% of samples, and mecA-confirmed airborne MRS in 12.5%.
  • Staphylococcus spp. prevalence in daytime air samples varied significantly by functional area (P < .001).
  • Airborne MRS levels correlated with human activity (P = .011), with hallways presenting the highest risk.

Conclusions:

  • Staphylococcus species are present in the air of clinical environments even without known active infections.
  • Airborne Staphylococcus spp. levels are associated with specific functional spaces and human activity.
  • Findings can enhance MRSA surveillance accuracy, exposure classification, and risk mitigation strategies.

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