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Ventilation-Associated Particulate Matter Is a Potential Reservoir of Multidrug-Resistant Organisms in Health
Evgenia Chezganova1, Olga Efimova2, Vera Sakharova3
1Department of Epidemiology, Kemerovo State Medical University, 650056 Kemerovo, Russia.
Abstract:
Most healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) develop due to the colonisation of patients and healthcare workers by multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO). Here, we investigated whether the particulate matter from the ventilation systems (Vent-PM) of health facilities can harbour MDRO and other microbes, thereby acting as a potential reservoir of HCAIs. Dust samples collected in the ventilation grilles and adjacent air ducts underwent a detailed analysis of physicochemical properties and biodiversity. All Vent-PM samples included ultrafine PM capable of reaching the alveoli. Strikingly, >70% of Vent-PM samples were contaminated, mostly by viruses (>15%) or multidrug-resistant and biofilm-producing bacterial strains (60% and 48% of all bacteria-contaminated specimens, respectively). Total viable count at 1 m from the ventilation grilles was significantly increased after opening doors and windows, indicating an association between air flow and bacterial contamination. Both chemical and microbial compositions of Vent-PM considerably differed across surgical vs. non-surgical and intensive vs. elective care units and between health facilities located in coal and chemical districts. Reduced diversity among MDRO and increased prevalence ratio in multidrug-resistant to the total Enterococcus spp. in Vent-PM testified to the evolving antibiotic resistance. In conclusion, we suggest Vent-PM as a previously underestimated reservoir of HCAI-causing pathogens in the hospital environment.
Insights
Ventilation system dust (Vent-PM) in healthcare facilities can harbor multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO) and viruses, posing a risk for healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs). This previously underestimated reservoir highlights the need for improved environmental monitoring and control strategies.
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Infection control
- Public health
Background:
- Healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) are often caused by multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO) colonizing patients and staff.
- The role of ventilation systems as potential reservoirs for microbial pathogens in healthcare settings remains underexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if particulate matter from healthcare ventilation systems (Vent-PM) harbors MDRO and other microbes.
- To assess Vent-PM as a potential reservoir for HCAIs.
Main Methods:
- Physicochemical properties and biodiversity analysis of dust samples from ventilation grilles and air ducts.
- Identification of microbial contaminants, including viruses and multidrug-resistant bacteria.
- Correlation of microbial contamination with air flow and facility type.
Main Results:
- Ultrafine particulate matter (PM) capable of reaching alveoli was present in all samples.
- >70% of Vent-PM samples were contaminated with viruses (>15%) or multidrug-resistant, biofilm-producing bacteria (60% and 48%).
- Bacterial contamination increased with air flow, and microbial composition varied by care unit type and facility location.
Conclusions:
- Vent-PM serves as a significant reservoir for HCAI-causing pathogens.
- Findings indicate evolving antibiotic resistance within hospital environments.
- Highlights the need for considering ventilation systems in infection control strategies.
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