Sustainable reduction of nasal colonization and hand contamination with Staphylococcus aureus in food handlers, 2002-2011

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

14 Scopus Citations
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Author(s)

  • J. Ho
  • M. Boost
  • M. O'Donoghue

Detail(s)

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1751-1760
Number of pages10
Journal / PublicationEpidemiology and Infection
Volume143
Issue number8
Online published13 Oct 2014
Publication statusPublished - Jun 2015
Externally publishedYes

Abstract

A longitudinal study of nasal colonization and hand contamination of food handlers with Staphylococcus aureus commenced in 2002 prior to the outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome. In the follow-up in 2003 when hygiene measures were strictly implemented, significant reductions in carriage were observed. To investigate if this change was sustained, nasal and hand carriage rates were compared between the earlier studies and a further sampling in 2011. The initial nasal carriage rate was 35% and hand contamination 412%, decreasing to 235% and 116%, respectively in 2003 (P <0001). In 2011, nasal carriage was similar to 2003 (229%), while hand contamination dropped further to 37% (P <0001). Spa-typing revealed 39 types in 2002 and 42 in 2011. This study reveals that the marked reduction in colonization had been sustained. This may be attributed to reduced opportunities for spread due to enhanced hygiene and reinforces its importance for control of disease.

Research Area(s)

  • Colonization, food handler, S, aureus, HONG-KONG, GENERAL-POPULATION, FOODBORNE DISEASE, UNITED-STATES, PREVALENCE, CARRIAGE, RESISTANCE, BEHAVIORS, OUTBREAKS