Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus survival on hospital fomites

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 2006 Nov;27(11):1267-9. doi: 10.1086/507965. Epub 2006 Sep 28.

Abstract

We examined the duration of survival of 2 strains of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) on 3 types of hospital fomites. MRSA survived for 11 days on a plastic patient chart, more than 12 days on a laminated tabletop, and 9 days on a cloth curtain. Irregular surfaces may help harbor organisms in the environment. In addition to contact precautions, MRSA containment during an outbreak should include concurrent environmental decontamination.

MeSH terms

  • Bedding and Linens / microbiology
  • Equipment Contamination
  • Fomites / microbiology*
  • Hospitals*
  • Humans
  • Interior Design and Furnishings
  • Methicillin Resistance*
  • Staphylococcus aureus / drug effects
  • Staphylococcus aureus / growth & development*
  • Staphylococcus aureus / isolation & purification
  • Time Factors