A critical evaluation of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus and other bacteria of medical interest on commonly touched household surfaces in relation to household demographics

A convenience sample of 35 homes was recruited from the metro-Boston area, and up to 32 surfaces were sampled in kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas. Highest bacterial counts were associated with wet sites including hand/skin contact surfaces such as the tub, kitchen sink, and faucet handles. Surfaces were found to be contaminated including species of Enterobacteriaceae, Pseudomonas, methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (MSSA), and MRSA. A number of hand/skin contact surfaces were found to be frequently contaminated with one or more of the bacteria. The presence of a cat in the home was found to be a strong predictor for the isolation of MRSA. Am J Infect Control. 2009 Aug;37(6):447-53. Epub 2009 Apr 9.