Sand in Public Playgrounds May Play a Role in Transmitting Infections

Article

Investigators have revealed that the Gram-positive, anaerobic bacterium Clostridium difficile is widely distributed in soil samples from children's and dogs' sandboxes located within the metropolitan area of Madrid.

The researchers also found the presence of genetically diverse strains of C. difficile. The presence of certain strains displaying increased toxin production, and in some cases multidrug resistance, could constitute a major health risk. This bacterium can cause symptoms in human and animal hosts ranging from mild diarrhea to life-threatening inflammation of the colon.

"Our results are just a call to action. A 'One Health; approach is required in future environmental surveys for this emerging pathogen," said professor José Blanco, corresponding author of the Zoonoses and Public Health study.

Source: Wiley

Recent Videos
Pathogen Playbook Presenter: Sharon Ward-Fore, BS, MS, MT(ASCP), CIC, FAPIC
Mark Wiencek, PhD
Rebecca Crapanzano-Sigafoos, DrPH, CIC, AL-CIP, FAPIC
The CDC’s updated hospital respiratory reporting requirement has added new layers of responsibility for infection preventionists. Karen Jones, MPH, RN, CIC, FAPIC, clinical program manager at Wolters Kluwer, breaks down what it means and how IPs can adapt.
Studying for the CIC using a digital tablet and computer (Adobe Stock 335828989 by NIKCOA)
Infection Control Today's Conversations with the HSPA President, Arlene Bush, CRCST, CER, CIS, SME, DSMD, CRMST
Infection Control Today's Conversations with the HSPA President, Arlene Bush, CRCST, CER, CIS, SME, DSMD, CRMST
Cheron Rojo, BS, FCS, CHL,  CER, CFER, CRCST
Matthias Tschoerner, Dr Sc
Standardizing Cleaning and Disinfection
Related Content