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July 2006
Dear MemberHere is a brief update on news and activities since the last
newsletter.
| Latest Research |
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The role copper surfaces could play in preventing the transmission of
infection is based on solid science and two new papers have been
published, adding to the considerable body of evidence:J O Noyce, H Michels, C W Keevil. (2006)
Use of copper cast alloys
to control Escherichia coli O157 cross-contamination during food
processing.
Applied and Environmental Microbiology, JuneJ O Noyce, H Michels, C W Keevil. (2006)
Use of copper surfaces to
control methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus transmission in the
healthcare environment.
Journal of Hospital Infection , July.
The announcement by Prof Keevil earlier this year that copper
inactivates a strain of Influenza A similar to avian flu received much
press coverage, including the 'Germ of an idea for fighting bugs' -
Special Report on Copper, Financial Times Supplement, 10th May and
coverage on Timesonline - 'Flu with knobs on'.
Testing is planned for copper's antimicrobial effect on Clostridium
difficile, an organism responsible for 51,690 infections in people aged 65
years and over in 2005, a 17.2% increase on 2004.
(Mandatory Surveillance of Healthcare Associated Infections
Report, 2006, Health Protection Agency, 24/7/06).
| International Conference |
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The threat from antibiotic-resistant organisms is a global issue and
The 7th Congress of the International Federation of Infection Control,
held in Stellenbosch, South Africa, 2nd-4th July, featured a symposium on
the role of copper in reducing bio-burden in healthcare facilities.
Presentations included:
Laboratory validation work conducted for the US Environmental
Protection Agency on the impact and efficacy of copper and copper alloys
in reducing touch-surface bio-burden: H Michels, USA.
In vitro activity of copper against TB and clinical isolates – the
South African Experience: S Mehtar, S Africa.
In-situ testing at Kitasato University School of Medicine, Tokyo, on
the impact of copper and copper alloy surfaces on bio-burden in a
working hospital environment: T Sasahara, Japan.
New perspectives: A vision for harnessing copper for rural clinics in
Africa: G Mackintosh, S Africa.
| EPA Testing |
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The US laboratory efficacy tests have been completed and the final
submission to the EPA is being prepared to support a human health claim.
The tests include reinfection and wet and dry wear simulation tests and
the results confirm the potent antimicrobial efficacy of copper and copper
alloys.
UK - CDA is working with a laboratory, accredited for environmental
testing, and the test site hospital's infection control team to produce
the testing protocol. CDA is providing support to manufacturers to produce
unlacquered copper alloy sample door furniture and hospital equipment for
the trial. If you would like to work with us to develop products such as
dressing trolleys, IV poles, cot sides and work surfaces then please
contact Alison
Brett.
US - the US government is funding a comprehensive trial in which
intensive care wards at three sites will be equipped with copper alloy
surfaces. The trial will last for 3-5 years.Japan - the preliminary results using copper and brass foil and sheet
to cover knobs and areas of floors and walls are very encouraging. See results overview.
| In-house Presentations |
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The CDA team has visited various groups and organisations over the past
year, including a local HEFMA group, Architects for Health and the Guild
of Architectural Ironmongers. If you lead a team of designers, architects
or specifiers and would like an in-house presentation and an opportunity
for discussion on copper's antimicrobial properties and role in reducing
transmission of infection, please contact Alison Brett.
Angela Vessey
Director
Copper Development Association
www.copperinfo.co.uk/antimicrobial
Copper Connects Life
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