Investigation of Increased Rates of Isolation ofBacillusSpecies

Abstract

Periodic increases in the environmental load of Bacillus species may occur in hospitals. Our investigation indicated that at one facility, these increases likely represented a pseudo-outbreak of Bacillus species colonizing central venous lines or their accessories, such as needleless connector devices. Vigilant attention should be paid to infection control practices when collecting blood samples for culture, to minimize the risk of contamination by environmental microorganisms.

Hot and steamy: outbreak of Bacillus cereus in Singapore associated with construction work and laundry practices

“…isolation in warmer, humid months. 8,9 Hospital outbreaks have been localized to ventilator equipment, infusion fluids and air ventilation systems. 10e13 Contamination of hospital linen and construction work or renovation is increasingly linked with Bacillus spp.…”

Seasonal Outbreak of Bacillus Bacteremia Associated With Contaminated Linen in Hong Kong

“…This laundry protocol is more stringent than before, and the incidence of Bacillus bacteremia was noted to be the lowest during the postoutbreak period, compared with the outbreak and baseline periods. In addition to a more stringent laundry protocol, it is important to note that the spores of Bacillus species could also be introduced from the environment after laundry processing, especially during the warmer and more humid months [30,31]. Recurrent outbreaks of B. cereus colonization of hospital newborns as a result of contaminated laundered linen have been reported during 2 consecutive summers [16].…”

Association ofBacillus cereusInfection with Contaminated Alcohol Prep Pads

“…The presence of a central venous access device was found to be a risk factor for a blood culture positive for Bacillus species (odds ratio [OR], 14; P< .01) in the case control study. 25 Products were not tested in this study.…”