Colonization of water pipelines with Pseudomonas Aeruginosa: can it be the source of outbreak in a burn center

Background and Aim : Biofilms can be the source of contamination of water distribution system, especially in buildings with old pipelines. Biofilms can be enough resistant against water stream and even some disinfectants. The importance of water as a source of infection in hospital wards is not completely investigated. Methods : Ten standard swab cultures were taken from inner side of faucets and showers in burn wards and burn ICU of Imam Reza Burn Center, Mashhad, Iran. All specimens were cultured in blood agar culture medium. Then all Faucets and showers were disinfected by chlorhexidine solution, installed again and standard swab culture repeated after 3 days. Results : In the first group of swab cultures, Pseudomonas aeruginosa reported in 8 of 10 specimens (80%). After disinfection, no important pathogen was reported in specimens. Conclusion : water distribution pipelines especially old ones can be colonized with pathogen bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and work as a source of outbreaks in burn units. Sufficient surveillance on water distribution system is recommended.

Keywords:

Pseudomonas aeruginosa , colonization , burn center , pipeline , water distribution system