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Antimicrobial Activity of Copper Alloys Against Invasive Multidrug-Resistant Nosocomial Pathogens

Ozgen Koseoglu Eser1, Alper Ergin, Gulsen Hascelik

  • 1Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey, ozgen.eser@hacettepe.edu.tr.

Current Microbiology
|June 6, 2015
PubMed

Insights

High-purity copper surfaces effectively kill hospital-acquired bacteria, including multidrug-resistant pathogens. This study shows copper is superior to stainless steel in reducing bacterial load on surfaces.

Area of Science:

  • Infection Control
  • Materials Science
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Antibiotic resistance necessitates new strategies to prevent hospital-acquired infections.
  • Metallic copper surfaces show promise for controlling multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria in healthcare settings.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of copper materials against invasive MDR nosocomial pathogens.
  • To compare the antimicrobial activity of 99% copper and 63% copper (brass alloy) against stainless steel.

Main Methods:

  • Clinical isolates of MRSA, MDR Acinetobacter baumannii, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were used.
  • Antimicrobial activity was assessed on 99% copper, 63% copper, and stainless steel coupons.
  • Logarithmic reduction of microorganisms was measured over time.

Main Results:

  • All materials showed statistically significant differences in bacterial reduction.
  • 99% copper demonstrated the highest antimicrobial activity, followed by 63% copper, and then stainless steel.
  • 99% copper exhibited a bactericidal effect within 1-2 hours for MRSA and P. aeruginosa.

Conclusions:

  • 99% copper surfaces are highly effective in reducing bacterial concentrations, particularly for nosocomial pathogens.
  • Metallic copper offers a superior alternative to stainless steel for antimicrobial hard surfaces in hospitals.
  • Copper's bactericidal properties can aid in preventing the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in healthcare environments.

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