Microbial Outbreak Results in Deaths at Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Cinnaminson, NJ, August 8th, 2012
 
The Health Minister of the Bahamas recently ordered an investigation into an outbreak of a microbial pathogen at a neonatal intensive care unit.  The outbreak, caused by a type of bacteria known as Acinetobacter baumannii, is believed to have sickened eight infants and caused two of the infants to die.
 
Outbreaks of Acinetobacter baumannii in healthcare settings occur worldwide, including in the United States.  Outbreaks of the infections typically occur in intensive care units and healthcare settings housing very ill patients. These infections rarely occur outside of healthcare settings.
 
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Acinetobacter causes a variety of diseases, ranging from pneumonia to serious blood or wound infections, and the symptoms vary depending on the disease. Acinetobacter may also “colonize” or live in a patient without causing infection or symptoms, especially in tracheostomy sites or open wounds.”
 
One company that has been at the forefront in helping to identify microbial pathogens to prevent human infections is EMSL Analytical, Inc.  “Acinetobacter is one of the microbial pathogens often referred to as a healthcare-associated infection or HAI,” reported Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc.  “For most healthy people the bacteria pose little risk.  However, for people with compromised immune systems or those with a prolonged hospital stay, it can be a real threat.  Acinetobacter can be spread to susceptible persons by person-to-person contact or contact with contaminated surfaces.  Environmental sampling can identify the presence of this, and other, potentially harmful microbial pathogens in healthcare settings to help prevent outbreaks.”
 
EMSL recently sponsored an educational video about Acinetobacter that can be seen at:
http://youtu.be/hrIPikbeBJs 
 
To learn more about testing for microbial contaminants, indoor air quality (IAQ) or other environmental issues, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com .
 
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public.  The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies. 

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical

(1) 1-800-220-3675

jfrasca@emsl.com