RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 The role of fomites in the transmission of vaginitis
JF Canadian Medical Association Journal
JO CMAJ
FD Canadian Medical Association
SP 1181
OP 1183
VO 112
IS 10
A1 D. E. Andrew
A1 E. Bumstead
A1 A. G. Kempton
YR 1975
UL http://www.cmaj.ca/content/112/10/1181.abstract
AB A role for fomites such as toilet seats in the transmission of vaginitis has never been proved or disproved. A compilation of clinical data from a university community showed that the organisms found in vaginal cultures of patients with vaginitis were, in order of frequency. Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, beta-hemolytic streptococci, Hemophilus vaginalis and Trichomonas vaginalis. In a concurrent bacteriologic survey of washroom fixtures, staphylococci and other micrococci were isolated most frequently. The overt pathogens associated with vaginitis were never found, and gram-negative organisms appeared to be suppressed by the disinfectant used by the cleaning staff. It is clear that fomites are not an important mode of transmission in vaginitis, although a search for specific pathogens on toilets is to be continued.