Researchers from Lewis University in Romeoville, Ill., took samples from 26 areas inside of 71 ambulances from 34 different Chicago-area municipalities. At least one S. aureus sample was found in 69% of ambulances tested. Of particular interest, only 5 of 71 ambulances tested positive for the “superbug,” known as methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA).
In a press release, James Rago, PhD, lead study author and assistant professor of biology at Lewis University, notes that the results indicate that first responders are doing a good job of protecting patients.1
“Given the ease with which S. aureus can survive on inanimate surfaces and exchange antibiotic resistance elements, a conscientious approach to the application of existing cleaning techniques, especially in key ambulance sites, needs to continue,” the researchers state.
References
- Rago JV, Buhs K, Makarovaite V, et al. Detection and analysis of Staphylococcus aureus isolates found in ambulances in the Chicago metropolitan area. Am J Infect Control. 2012;40(3):201—205. doi:10.1016/j.ajic.2011.08.021