Fomite Transmission MLT1-211.2.6-01,02
There are three necessary elements to spread infection, the first being the source of the organism. Endogenous infections are caused by microbes that already exist on the human body which acts a reservoir. Exogenous infections are caused microbes from an external environment and enter through the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts.
The second element is a susceptible host for the spread of an infection. The infection ability to spread depends on the strength of the organism and the ability of the host to defend against it. Multiple factors increase the susceptibility of organisms including a compromised immune system, age, stress level, how healthy, and any pre-existing condition.
The third element of the spread of infections is the transmission of the organism. There are three primary modes of transmission for organisms. Direct contact is when the host comes into close contact with the infection. Indirect contact is when an organism is transferred to an inanimate object also referred to as a fomite and then transmitted to a susceptible host. Droplet transmission refers to the transmission of an organism by means of coughing, sneezing and talking (Betsy, Keogh, 2005)
The following eight sites described as part of this experiment where prepared per the provided instructions using aseptic technique.
Toothbrush – This site grew colonies of a red/brown color with an irregular, raised and undulate colony shape. I expected the culture to grow many colonies for all the different organisms in the mouth.
Bathroom sink handles – This site grew a large, irregular, convex shaped colony. I expected a smaller colony growth for this sample.
Computer mouse – This site grew a circular, convex shaped colonies that overlapped each other. I expected that the colonies would be of moderate growth.
Refrigerator handle – This site grew a circular/filamentous shaped colony that was flat and not well distributed. I expected...