Surveillance and molecular characterization of non-tuberculous mycobacteria in a hospital water distribution system over a three-year period

J Hosp Infect. 2014 May;87(1):59-62. doi: 10.1016/j.jhin.2014.03.002. Epub 2014 Mar 25.

Abstract

A three-year surveillance of non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) in a hospital water distribution system was conducted at a facility located in southern Alberta. NTM was not present in any intake water samples, but was found in 106/183 (58%) of endpoint samples across 15 sites over the study period. Two different species of NTM were identified, Mycobacterium gordonae (88/183) and Mycobacterium avium (34/183); with only one strain of each M. gordonae and M. avium found. Given the sensitive nature of a healthcare facility, attention should be paid to minimize potential impact of NTM from potable water sources on patient health.

Keywords: Hospital water distribution systems; Non-tuberculous mycobacteria; Nosocomial infections; Waterborne infections.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alberta
  • Drinking Water / microbiology*
  • Epidemiological Monitoring
  • Hospitals
  • Humans
  • Mycobacterium avium / classification*
  • Mycobacterium avium / genetics
  • Mycobacterium avium / isolation & purification*
  • Nontuberculous Mycobacteria / classification*
  • Nontuberculous Mycobacteria / genetics
  • Nontuberculous Mycobacteria / isolation & purification*

Substances

  • Drinking Water