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Moulds in containers with biological wastes
1Mikrobiologisches Labor, Bad Kreuznach, Germany.
Abstract:
The collection of biological wastes in separate bio-containers can lead to a favoured development of thermophilic and thermotolerant moulds, especially of mucoraceous species and aspergilli, among which the human pathogen A. fumigatus is especially frequent. The abundantly produced spores are released into the air and can evoke severe infections in persons with immune-deficiencies. In two series of experiments it was demonstrated that the following procedures can reduce the number of spores in the air in the bio-containers above the biological wastes: (1) wrapping the wastes in portions in newsprint: the number of colony-forming units (CFU) decreases for about 50-70%; (2) cleaning of the container after each emptying with diluted vinegar: the number of CFU is reduced for up to 80%; (3) placing the container at shady sites: the temperature of the air inside the bio-containers at shady sites is approximately 5-8 degrees C lower than at sunny places with the consequence that the number of CFU in the air above the biological wastes is decreased. Based on these results principles for the handling of biological wastes are set up.
Insights
Controlling airborne mold spores in biological waste is crucial for preventing infections in immunocompromised individuals. Simple methods like wrapping waste, cleaning containers with vinegar, and using shady sites significantly reduce spore counts.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Environmental Health
- Infection Control
Background:
- Biological waste collection can foster thermophilic and thermotolerant mold growth, particularly Aspergillus fumigatus.
- Airborne spores from molds like A. fumigatus pose severe infection risks to immunocompromised individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify effective methods for reducing airborne mold spores in biological waste containers.
- To establish principles for safer biological waste handling.
Main Methods:
- Experiments were conducted in two series to evaluate spore reduction techniques.
- Methods tested included wrapping waste in newsprint, cleaning containers with diluted vinegar, and placing containers in shady locations.
Main Results:
- Wrapping waste in newsprint reduced colony-forming units (CFU) by 50-70%.
- Cleaning containers with diluted vinegar decreased CFU by up to 80%.
- Shady sites lowered container temperatures, reducing airborne CFU.
Conclusions:
- Newsprint wrapping, regular vinegar cleaning, and shaded placement are effective strategies.
- Implementing these methods can significantly mitigate airborne mold spore levels in biological waste.