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Updated: Jan 25, 2026
08:51
Genotyping of Staphylococcus aureus by Ribosomal Spacer PCR RS-PCR
Published on: November 4, 2016
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Tracking Staphylococcus aureus in the intensive care unit using whole-genome sequencing.
S J Dancer1, C E Adams2, J Smith3
1Department of Microbiology, Hairmyres Hospital, Glasgow, UK; School of Applied Sciences, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, UK.
The Journal of Hospital Infection
|May 1, 2019
Summary
Colonized patients frequently reintroduce Staphylococcus aureus into ICUs, with most infections originating from patients themselves. Patient screening and surface cleaning are key to controlling staphylococcal spread.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Staphylococcus aureus is a significant global bacterial pathogen.
- This study investigated S. aureus transmission within an intensive care unit (ICU).
Purpose of the Study:
- To track Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) between ecological reservoirs in an ICU.
- To identify transmission pathways and sources of S. aureus in a healthcare setting.
Main Methods:
- Systematic screening of surfaces, staff hands, air, and patients over 10 months.
- Whole-genome sequencing and spa typing of S. aureus isolates for epidemiological analysis.
Main Results:
- Identified 34 transmission events, with 29 highly related (<25 SNPs).
- Over half (59%) of transmissions were autogenous spread from colonized patients.
- Cross-transmission between patients and to hand-touch sites occurred (12% each).
- Airborne S. aureus linked to staff hands and bedrails in 12% of events.
Conclusions:
- Colonized patients are primary sources of S. aureus introduction and spread within the ICU.
- Hand-touch surfaces act as short-term reservoirs, posing a risk to subsequent patients.
- Patient screening, surface cleaning, and hand hygiene are crucial for S. aureus control in ICUs.
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