Airborne antiseptic-tolerant germs detected in ICUs, study hints
A Northwestern-led study finds trace chlorhexidine lingering in ICU rooms can promote antiseptic-tolerant bacteria. In 219 surface samples from six ICUs, about 36% showed tolerance, with sinks highlighted as hotspots and the possibility that aerosols can spread tolerant bacteria to nearby surfaces. Some tolerant strains carry plasmids that could also spread antibiotic resistance, though chlorhexidine remains effective at standard cleaning concentrations. The findings underscore the need for antimicrobial stewardship and more research into how antiseptic use may influence resistance beyond antibiotics.