Survival and decontamination of potential bio-warfare agents on hospital surfaces

Effective decontamination of infectious agents on critical and other hospital surfaces will drastically reduce nosocomial infections and impacts of any biological attack. This research determined the distribution of multiple species of bacteria on 16 different surfaces in two hospitals over a period of time to identify potential reservoirs of infection. The relative efficacy of current hospital disinfectants on endospores were also evaluated to inform policy. Using simulations of endospore-laden surfaces under laboratory conditions, the effects of exposure time, disinfectant concentration and possible synergies with endospore germination stimulant were evaluated. Keyboards, phones, door handles and bed rails were identified as risky hospital surfaces. The location and use of the surfaces were significant determinants of bacterial load. None of the disinfectants tested was sporicidal (<50% reduction). The results of this unique study provide healthcare personnel with a practical guide to control the spread of infection during peace and bio-warfare times.