Outbreak of invasive group A streptococcus: investigations using agar settle plates detect perineal shedding from a healthcare worker

ConclusionThis is the first outbreak report demonstrating the use of settle plates in a GAS outbreak investigation on a medical ward, to identify the likely source of the outbreak. Based on this report we recommend that both throat and perineal sites should be sampled if HCW screening is undertaken during an outbreak of GAS. Fabric, soft furnishings should be excluded from clinical areas as well as any adjacent offices because pathogenic bacteria such as GAS may contaminate this environment.
Source: Journal of Hospital Infection - Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: research