Study: Use anti-microbial wipes only once

CARDIFF , Wales, June 4 (UPI) -- Welsh researchers advise using only one anti-microbial wipe per surface to prevent the spread of germs such as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.

Dr. Jean-Yves Maillard of the Cardiff University, the study leader, said researchers observed hospital staff using surface wipes to decontaminate bed rails, monitors, tables and key pads and other surfaces touched by patients and staff.

However, the researchers found the wipes were being applied to the same surface several times and used on consecutive surfaces before being discarded. The wipes were unable to kill the bacteria removed and high numbers of bacteria were transferred to other surfaces when reused, they found.

"On the whole, wipes can be effective in removing, killing and preventing the transfer of pathogens such as MRSA but only if used in the right way," Dr. Gareth Williams, microbiologist at the Welsh School of Pharmacy said in a statement.

"We found that the most effective way is to prevent the risk of MRSA spread in hospital wards is to ensure the wipe is used only once on one surface."

Williams presented the findings at the American Society of Microbiology's 108th general meeting in Boston.