Disinfectants lose effectiveness

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Some bacteria have adapted to the ingredients in certain disinfectants, according to an article on MSNBC.com. A study published in Microbiology offers evidence that disinfectants may be contributing to bacteria resistance.

Dr. Gerard Fleming, the main researcher from the National University of Ireland in Galway said, "In principle, this means that residue from incorrectly diluted disinfectants left on hospital surfaces could promote the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. What is more worrying is that bacteria seem to be able to adapt to resist antibiotics without even being exposed to them. We need to investigate the effects of using more than one type of disinfectant on promoting antibiotic-resistant strains. This will increase the effectiveness of both our first and second lines of defense against HAIs."

Researchers also suggested that using different types of disinfectants may provide multiple lines of defense against hospital-acquired infections."

To view the full article, visit
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34610828/ns/technology_and_science-science.

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