|
|
 |
|
 |
|
 |
| |
| <<Back |
Steam could kill off MRSA superbugDate: 30/07/2007 09:06:16
|
Scientists have developed an instant steam-delivering device which could be used in the fight against hospital-based infections, including MRSA.
The portable cleaning system produces high-temperature steam by passing alcohol and hydrogen peroxide through a fined-powdered catalyst, with one two-centimetre high reactor capable of producing up to 70 litres of steam at 650 degrees Celsius in a matter of seconds, according to Chemistry and Industry magazine.
Researchers have found that bacteria and anti-biotic resistant superbugs such as MRSA can be destroyed by exposure to temperatures of between 150 and 180 degrees C.
"To me it sounds feasible - anything that is heated to over 121 degrees C should be enough to kill all bacteria and even spores, so it would kill Clostridium difficile," said Dr Jodi Lindsay, senior lecturer at St Georges Hospital Medical School.
"But my concern would be that in the middle of the steam it would be hot but in the periphery it wouldn't be hot enough, so the manufacturers would have to be clear about the effects."
The Health Protection Agency recently reported that the number of cases of MRSA in hospitals increased by 22 per cent between April 2006 and March 2007.
Talk to a qualified doctor now about any health matter call 0906 665 8002. Calls cost £1.50 per minute from a BT landline. 24 hrs 7 days a week. Callers must have bill payer's permission and be over 18. All calls are recorded but you do not have to give your name. All Doctors are GMC registered and either fully qualified GPs or post membership hospital specialists. Not for emergency use, diagnosis or prognosis. Not designed to replace a face to face consultation with a medical professional, and any callers taking such advice in isolation do so at their own risk. In the case of a medical emergency, dial 999. Calls last a maximum of 20 minutes.
 © Adfero Ltd
|
|
| |
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
| |
| |
|
|
