Bacterial biofilms in hospital water pipes may be pathogenic

Researchers discover potentially pathogenic bacteria living inside water supply pipes


Researchers have discovered that hospital water pipes house a community of potentially pathogenic bacteria, according to an article on the Infection Control Today website.

A paper published in the journal Applied and Environmental Microbiology describes microbial communities found in shower hoses at a U.S. hospital. 

Researchers from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Georgia Institute of Technology can't say yet if these bacteria pose a threat to hospital patients. 

But because some of the genes could indicate pathogenic characteristics the researchers want to learn more about the potential health implications and whether other buildings house similar biofilms, the article said. 

Read the article.

 

 



March 22, 2016


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

Legionella Detected at Michigan Health Facility

Case follows a similar finding of Legionnaires’ disease in a former patient.


Crystal Spring Tower Opens at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital

The new cardiovascular institute improves access and care across the region.


Hospital Evacuation Highlights Importance of Emergency Preparedness

Berger Hospital was evacuated after smoke was discovered in the basement.


Building a Culture of Infection Prevention

Investing in infection prevention can benefit healthcare organizations and patient outcomes.


Ground Broken on Sanford Health Fargo's Peltier Lodge

The 28,400-square-foot facility will feature spaces to support patients and loved ones during treatment and throughout their outpatient care and monitoring.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 
 
 
 

Healthcare Facilities Today membership includes free email newsletters from our facility-industry brands.

Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Posts

Copyright © 2023 TradePress. All rights reserved.