Epidemiological investigation of Ochrobactrum anthropi strains isolated from a haematology unit.

Ochrobactrum anthropi is an oxidase-producing gram-negative bacillus preferring aqueous environments. It is an opportunist of low pathogenicity with a wide and unpredictable antibiotic resistance. We observed bacteraemia caused by this organism in two immunocompromized patients hospitalized in the same haematology unit and catheter-associated sepsis was recognized within two days.

Efficacy of prevention by high-efficiency particulate air filtration or laminar airflow against Aspergillus airborne contamination during hospital renovation.

Objective: To evaluate efficacy of laminar airflow facilities plus high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration and HEPA filtration alone in preventing environmental Aspergillus contamination during hospital renovation. To show the usefulness of environmental surveillance to facilitate protection of patients at risk for invasive pulmonary aspergillosis.

Design: Prospective sampling of air and surfaces for Aspergillus conidia during 2-year period.