Bacteriophage-based Aerosol Decontaminant for Use in Patient Care Areas

Nosocomial transmission of multi-drug-resistant microorganisms in combat support hospitals is a well-recognized and growing problem. BioDetection Instruments proposes a rapid, simple and safe method for reducing contamination in hospital wards with a novel bacteriophage-based aerosol application. Bacteriophages are natural to the environment and pose no risk to humans. The bacteriophage product will have the potential to thoroughly coat and penetrate niches of bacterial reservoirs typically overlooked by standard housekeeping procedures. This Phase I project is focused on isolation and preliminary testing of bacteriophages that can reduce levels of Acinetobacter baumannii calcoaceticus and Klebsiella pneumoniae on stainless steel and Teflon surfaces. Additionally, bacteriophages will be selected to withstand drying to facilitate a lasting effect within the environment.