The whole genome sequence has been discovered to isolate the specific strain of bacteria causing an outbreak, according to Medical Xpress.
Here are eight facts to know:
1. After the genome sequence isolates the strain causing the outbreak, the sequence can identify the source of contamination.
2. The identification facilitates infection prevention to stop the spread of infection.
3. These findings were based on the examination of an outbreak of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in an Australian neonatal unit.
4. Rebecca Davis, MD, the study's head researcher, explains the whole genome sequence is significant for neonatal intensive care patients as well.
5. Researchers found 18 infants in their study colonized with the bacteria which may have fatal consequences.
6. The infants infected with the specific strain of P. aeruginosa, ST253, were isolated to prevent infection transmission.
7. Dr. Davis stated researchers were able to identify the strain because of the whole genome sequence, a finding that could not have been identified without genome sequencing.
8. Excluding a patient from the outbreak is just as vital as recognizing the outbreak, said Dr. Davis. The information the sequence provides, such as possible antibiotic resistance mutations and quick processing time, makes the sequence a significant device in infection control.
For more articles on infection control:
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The Dirt on Endoscopes and CRE
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