The environmental risk factors associated with medical and dental equipment in the transmission of Burkholderia (Pseudomonas) cepacia in cystic fibrosis patients

Transmission of Burkholderia (Pseudomonas) cepacia by close contact with colonized patients is well documented, and minimizing social contact between cystic fibrosis (CF) patients by segregation and cohorting of B. cepacia colonized patients has achieved some success in controlling the nosocomial and community spread of this organism. However, direct and indirect environmental transmission still occurs. There is evidence for transmission of B. cepacia to CF patients via pulmonary test equipment, nebulizers and other respiratory equipment used both in CF centres and for homecare, but little or no evidence of spread through aerosols, dental equipment, hands, contaminated disinfectants and water supplies. Infection control procedures for reducing the transmission of B. cepacia are discussed.