Comparative in vitro activities of three new quinolones and azithromycin against aerobic pathogens causing respiratory tract and abdominal wound infections.

Background: In our study the in vitro susceptibility of common pathogens that cause respiratory tract and abdominal wound infections was tested against two newer fluorquinolones (moxifloxacin and gatifloxacin) as well as levofloxacin and azithromycin.

Methods: 50 isolates each of methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus faecium, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Haemophilus influenzae isolated from the respiratory tract and from wounds were tested for their susceptibility to moxifloxacin, gatifloxacin, levofloxacin and azithromycin.

Results: Moxifloxacin proved to be the most active substance against the tested gram-positive pathogens.

Does disinfection of environmental surfaces influence nosocomial infection rates? A systematic review.

Objective: To review the evidence on the effects of disinfection of environmental surfaces in hospitals (as compared with cleaning without use of disinfectants) on the occurrence of nosocomial infections.

Methods: Systematic review of experimental and nonexperimental intervention studies dealing with environmental disinfection or cleaning in different health care settings.

Results: A total of 236 scientific articles were identified.