Why is Pseudomonas aeruginosa of particular concern?
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most problematic bacteria in healthcare facilities and it is responsible for about 10-20% of hospital acquired infections (HAIs) in ICUs (pneumonia, wound infections, blood stream infections and urinary tract infections)5. Several studies have shown that up to 42% of the hospital acquired P. aeruginosa infections may be derived from the water distribution system9-11. Infection chains from water taps to patients have been reported. P. aeruginosa easily colonizes all kinds of fluids (even distilled water) and rapidly forms biofilms5. P. aeruginosa strains have developed resistance against commonly used antibiotics, rendering effective treatment increasingly complicated and expensive4,12.
