Microbiological quality of ice in hospital and community

Enteric bacteria of food ice and their survival in alcoholic beverages and soft drinks

“…This study confirmed previous observations (Wilson et al, 1997) that ice cubes produced at different levels are vectors of living enteric bacteria. Several species identified are known agents of human infections.…”

“…The microbiological investigation of ice used for foods and drinks in several countries revealed that it could be the cause for human health concerns due to the occurrence of gastroenteritis (Falcao et al, 2004;Gerokomou et al, 2011;Graman et al, 1997;Lateef et al, 2006;Nichols et al, 2000;Noor Izani et al, 2012;Wilson et al, 1997). The presence of pathogenic microorganisms in ice cubes is attributable to the contamination of the water used (Lateef et al, 2006;Northcutt and Smith, 2010), poor sanitary conditions during production, improper handling (Noor Izani et al, 2012) and/or the final packaging containers or bags (Chavasit et al, 2011).…”

Measures for controlling safety of crushed ice and tube ice in developing country

“…Outbreaks of gastroenteritis due to contaminated ice have been reported in the many provinces of Thailand and other parts of the world (Falcão, Dias, Correa, & Falcão, 2002;Malasao, 1995;Nongharnpitak, 2000;Pawsey & Howard, 2001). Usually, E. coli, coliforms and a variety of microorganisms in ice are indicators of poor water quality of water, a lack of hygiene in production or handling, or both (Food Safety Authority of Ireland, 2002;Lateef, Oloke, Gueguim Kana, & Pacheco, 2006;Nichols, Gillespie, & de Louvois, 2000;Wilson, Hogg, & Barr, 1997). In addition, a Thailand Food and Drug Administration (Thai FDA) survey showed that at least 67% of tube ice was contaminated with coliforms and E. coli (Rojjanawanicharkorn, Srithongderm, Thunyacharoen, & Duangjai, 2007).…”

Clinical significance of the emergence of bacterial resistance in the hospital environment

“…The intensive use of antibiotics provides an environment where these organisms can flourish, largely unencumbered by competition from susceptible organisms. This ecosystem is complex, comprising the gut, skin, nasal and oral flora of the patients, visitors and staff and numerous environmental niches in everything from the water supply and drainage to bedside equipment and lockers (Wilson et al 1997). Investigations of the ecosystem are generally limited to diagnostic specimens from patients with suspected infections but, when cross-infection problems are encountered, this ecology may be probed in more detail.…”