MOLD CONTAMINANTS IN THE HOSPITAL ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: In the recent years fungal contaminants in the hospital
environments are in rise and taking a critical place in human infectious diseases
along with bacteria and virus. Fungi enter in to the hospital from outdoor either
through failed HVAC systems or through people entering into the hospital. The aim
of the study is to assess and evaluate the environmental colonization of molds in the
controlled hospital environments.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: For this prospective, observational study we have
chosen 9 operation theatres, 10 intensive care units, one labor room and one CSSD of
this hospital. SDA contact plates and swabs streaked on SDA plates were kept for a
period of one hour by closing the OT or ICU doors. Plates were incubated for 10
days at 28° ±1°C. The results were expressed as the mean of two plates in colonyforming units per square centimeter (CFU/cm2
).
RESULTS: In this study 53.4% were Cladosporium, 23.9% were Aspergillus 8.18%
Fusarium, 7.5% Penicillium, 2.9% Rhizopus, 1.59% Alternaria, 1.19% Curvularia
and 0.9% of Sterile mycelium isolates were observed. Highest number of
Filamentous fungi CFU was noted in Cath lab and Obstetric and Gynec OT. Among
ICUs predominant of CFU were observed in Acute Medical ICU and Cardiac ICU.
CONCLUSION: A contingent measures like regular HVAC systems maintenance
and efficiency check, stringent hospital infection control practices adherence and
strong visitor policy will help to minimize the risk of infections.