Investigation and control of an outbreak due to a contaminated hospital water system, identified following a rare case of Cupriavidus pauculus bacteraemia. (May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Inkster, T.; Peters, C.; Wafer, T.; Holloway, D.; Makin, T.
• Is Part Of: Journal of hospital infection. Volume 111(2021)
• Page Start: 53
• Page End: 64
• Publication Date: 2021-05
• Subjects: Cupriavidus pauculus -- Waterborne infection -- Outbreak -- Haemato-oncology infection; Cross infection -- Periodicals; Cross infection -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Nosocomial infections -- Periodicals; Nosocomial infections -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Cross Infection -- Periodicals; Cross Infection -- prevention & control -- Periodicals; Infection Control -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 614.44
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2021.02.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0195-6701

Abstract

Summary: Background: Cupriavidus pauculus is rare cause of clinical infection. We describe an outbreak of C. pauculus and other Gram-negative bacteraemias in a paediatric haemato-oncology unit secondary to a contaminated water supply and drainage system. Aim: To describe the investigation and control measures implemented for a waterborne infection outbreak in a new build hospital. Methods: Extensive water testing from various points within the water system was undertaken. Taps, showerheads and components including flow straighteners underwent microbiological analysis. Drains were also swabbed. Surveillance for Gram-negative infections was established on the unit. Findings: Water testing revealed widespread contamination of the water and drainage system. Outlets were also heavily contaminated, including flow straighteners. Drains were found to have underlying structural abnormalities. Water testing enabled us to detect high-risk components within the water system such as the expansion vessels and outlets and the results assisted with hypotheses generation. Review of commissioning data and risk assessments revealed extensive risks present within the water system prior to and after hospital opening. Conclusion: Careful design, adequate control measures and maintenance are essential for hospital water systems in order to prevent infections due to waterborne organisms. We discuss what can be learned from this incident with a view to future prevention.