Most of us must hear about Legionnaire's disease. Simply It's a type of pneumonia (a lung infection), which sometimes becomes life-threatening. Legionella bacteria areresponsible for the disease. An effective Legionella Laboratory Testing can detect the presence of bacteria. Scientists believe about 35 types of legionella bacteria are associated with the ailment; however, L. pneumophila alone causes around 90% of infections. Curious minds look for appropriate sources that can explain everything on the dreadful disease. Its Origin Just because legionella bacteria happen to be around, there is not enough possibility that they can infect you. In fact, they are mostly found harmless in lakes and streams. In order to cause infection, they usually have to multiply to high levels in human-made systems like showers, hot tubs, air conditioners, fountains and water towers. How it spreads You might not get this disease from simply drinking or touching polluted water. Once legionella builds up to a certain level, it must form droplets small enough to move through the air and infect your lungs. Think of steam in a shower or vapor from a humidifier. You also might get it from airborne potting soil, or if you choke on contaminated water and it gets into your lungs (aspiration). Possible symptoms If you get Legionnaires, you will start feeling tired, weak, and achy two to 10 days after you're infected. It's common to get a fever over 103 F and a cough that can produce colored or bloody mucus. You also may have a headache, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Is it really contagious? Probably not. There is little, if any, evidence that you can spread Legionnaires' disease from person to person. So there's no reason to wear a mask around other people as you might with other serious infections like SARS or influenza. Who gets it? If you're healthy and young and you breathe in legionella, you're less likely than others to get Legionnaire's disease. Your risk goes up if: Your age is over 50 You smoke (or have in the past) You have lung disease You have diabetes, cancer, kidney problems or liver failure Drugs, illness, or an organ transplant has weakened your immune system Diagnosis The most common and serious sign of legionella is the pneumonia of Legionnaires' disease. That's when pus or fluid fills the sacs in your lungs. Your doctor will listen to your chest, ask about your symptoms, and take a chest x-ray to tell for sure if you have it. A test of your phlegm, spit, or urine can help tell whether legionella or some other germ caused the pneumonia.
How do you treat it? Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. Two types—quinolones (ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin) and macrolides (azithromycin)—work especially well against the bacteria that cause Legionnaires disease. The sooner you start, the less likely you are to have complications that put you in the hospital. When to see an expert You should visit the near by Microbiological testing laboratory center as soon as possible if you think you've been exposed to legionella bacteria. Because it causes such a serious form of pneumonia, early detection and treatment with antibiotics is key to making a full recovery. This is especially true if you're over 50, you're already ill, or you've been a smoker at some point in your life. Complications Lung failure: Your lungs can't get enough oxygen into your blood or enough carbon dioxide out. Septic shock: This can happen if an infection makes your blood pressure drop and cuts blood to your organs. Your heart first works harder to try to help but eventually weakens and cuts blood flow even more. Kidney failure: When your kidneys stop working, toxins, fluid, and waste build up in your body, which can cause tissue damage and illness. Pontiac Disease You might also hear it called Pontiac fever. Like Legionnaires' disease, legionella bacteria cause it. But unlike Legionnaires', it doesn't cause pneumonia. You usually get flu-like symptoms. Fever, chills, a headache and muscle aches are common. It starts about two days after you're infected and usually goes away without treatment in two to five days. Why It's called that The name, Legionnaires' disease, dates back to 1976. That's when bacteria infected and sickened a group of people attending a Philadelphia convention of the American Legion of Pennsylvania. Scientists named the bacteria Legionella pneumophila and the illness Legionnaires' disease, after the group that drew attention to this unique form of pneumonia.
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Dipslide A dipslide is a test carried out by a microbial testing center to know the presence of microorganisms in liquids. Testing the microbial activity in liquid-based systems has, over time, become one of the most critical tests. Luckily, one can carry out the test independently as a variety of dipslides are readily available in the market at very affordable prices. Fungi and Bacteria test kit Most bacteria and fungi test kit suppliers avail it with everything that you need to begin testing. It is opposed to purchasing items separately, as you often forget some of the items. About the bacteria and fungi dipslide kit This dipslide usually test for anaerobic bacteria and fungi. With the red spot dye, it is straightforward to interpret the result. It does not require any expertise. In the kit, there is an incubator that incubates two dipslides simultaneously.
Using a bacteria and fungi kit Step one Take out the slide Cautiously remove the dipslide from the tube. Note: On one side of the dipslide is nutrient agar, while on the other is malt Extract. Touching either of the two surfaces may cause contamination. Step two Collecting the sample This depends on the method of testing that you want to use. I. Swab testing – using the swab, apply the sample to the nutrient agar. II. Liquid testing – submerge the dipslide into the liquid for about 10 seconds. Remove it and wait for a little for it to drain. III. Surface testing – this is done by pressing the dipslide on top of the surface. Extra pressure may be applied by placing a finger on the bottom of the slide. Step three Incubating the slides Incubate the slides for the time indicated on the kit. Before placing the slides into the incubator for results, it is essential to ensure that all the samples are clearly labelled using stickers. This will ensure that the results are read correctly.
Step four Read the results Reading the results is easy and does not require a skill. Compare the results with the chart provided to come up with conclusions. Microbial lab testing Microbial lab testing involves using chemical, biological or biochemical methods to identify harmful microorganisms. This helps prevent the diseases caused by bacterial living in the working place or at home. This makes it a significant test for all, especially those with a higher risk of infection. If the bacteria contaminate food, they are known to cause food poisoning. This is, therefore, a critical test that is mandatory in food processing. Microbial food testing formats Some of the widely used test formats include; • Agar plates • Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests • Enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) • Nutrients plate One of the biggest challenges faced while carrying out these tests is that the microorganisms are not evenly distributed in the whole sample. While some may settle at the top of the samples, others prefer the mid, while others are concentrated in specific ingredients. For this reason, a range of results must be obtained to get the actual result.
Legionella laboratory testing Importance of the test Legionella is a harmful bacterial that is known to cause flu-like symptoms (Pontiac fever) or pneumonia. This makes the test very important, especially with the ongoing pandemic. Covid 19Symptoms to look out for Some of the common symptoms to look out for, among others include; • Mild headache • Fever with chills • Dry or productive cough • Shortness of breath • Nausea Who is at risk? Any person at any age is at risk of being infected. Nevertheless, people over 50 years of age are at a higher risk, predominantly those who smoke. Other people who stand higher risk have a compromised immune system due to underlying conditions such as kidney disease, HIV/AIDS, and lung cancer. Generally, more men are affected than women. Collecting the sample Samples are collected depending on the type of test to be carried out. For culture testing, sputum is collected, while for antigen testing, urine is collected. Note: it is essential to note that various tests can be carried out to detect the same. However, the direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) test is currently not acclaimed. The blood test is no longer being used even though it is still available in some laboratories. In simple terms, this is a comprehensive test used to concludethe precise antibiotics an exact fungus or bacteria is sensitive to. After the test, the lowest concentration of drugs can inhibit the growth of the fungi or the bacteria. This is referred to as Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) The test, therefore, makes it easy for the doctor to conclude which type of drug and the dosage that they are going to use. It is commonly used in infections that are difficult to treat. Antimicrobial testing methods • Automated instrument systems • Broth dilution tests • Antimicrobial gradient method For the last few years, cases of Legionella have been increasing a lot, and there has been a lot of legionella laboratory testing taking place at state levels. This antimicrobial testing is playing a vital role and is gaining significant importance in everyday lives, especially in water management industries all over the world. This is because the testing assures water quality as well as safety reducing health risks, which may be caused due to some negligence, unplanned absence of staff, or failure of biocide dosing systems. We need to know which methods in this regard prove convenient for testing and what are the differences between them? Maybe sometimes you can go for a single legionella laboratory testing method for one organization or many of them covering more areas. We will be discussing comparison methods for testing this disease to understand differences between antigen, QPCR, and culture. Measurements: WHAT IS BEING MEASURED Let us have a look at what is actually done for each test briefly Hydrosense Test The test makes the best use of technology named Lateral Flow Immunochromatographic Assay (LFICA) technology. Basically, it detects and finds out the disease’s antigen using antibodies comprising of red nano particles. These particles bind to any serogroup of Legionella, where bacteria is found in each sample, making them visible on the device. Simple, this legionella laboratory testing or antimicrobial testing method is as same as a pregnancy test, except it only detects and finds out legionella antigen instead of pregnancy markers.
PCR test PCR, commonly known as Polymerase Chain Reaction test, is a form of legionella laboratory testing, which is basically a technique used and applied in molecular biology. In this method DNA of a microorganism is taken out and perfectly extracted plus amplified. This eventually enables and lets the laboratory experts find out and determine the presence as well as quantity of that organism’s DNA in given samples. Lab Culture Test The lab culture method separates, isolates, and eventually quantifies culturable cells of this Legionella disease. RECOVERY RATE for Legionella Laboratory Testing Methods Each test has its own recovery rate. Hydrosense Test This antigen test has a recovery rate of more than 80%, whereas the culture method has the same of 55%. PCR Test The antimicrobial testing of PCR has the rate of 90%, but sensitivity needs to collaborate that legionella bacteria is present almost everywhere and in water systems, too even. PCR needs careful investigations to assure risks. Culture Test As per the latest studies and medical investigations, culture test shows a recovery of 65%, meaning that there is a higher possibility for remaining 36% inaccuracy even if you follow ISO standards, and non-ISO labs may have lower rates though SPEED Speed for each test is briefly discussed below Hydrosense Test The biggest and the noticeable advantage of this antigen or antimicrobial testing is the result, i.e., the test result. Antigen testing is very fast all over the world and detects Legionella rapidly within 25 minutes or even less as compared to 14 + days for lab culture. PCR Test The PCR is a very effective test method and is a useful tool, especially under emergency or outbreak conditions. This is because it produces either positive or negative results within hours instead of days as long as the lab is accessible and available. PCR takes 24-48 hours, especially if shipping to the lab is concerned. Lab Culture Test Culture is a time-taking test because it needs extra care as well as accuracy. It takes 7-14 days for accurate results. Latest studies have shown that Legionella can proliferate very easily and rapidly and doubles its population within 24 hours. In that case, culture results delay the stuff, and problems might be faced by patients. DETECTION of VIABLE BUT NON-CULTURABLE BACTERIA Each test detects viable and non-viable bacteria. Hydrosense Test Legionella enters viable and focuses on survival but remains in the non-culturable state. These viable non-culturable bacteria can still harm and cause infection leading to outbreaks of Legionella because these bacteria can resuscitate back to culturable cells under suitable stimuli, i.e., contact with amoebae. The antigen test can find out Legionella bacteria in this above-mentioned state. PCR The test is similar to antigen in this regard, where bacteria is detected using DNA, and moreover, VNBC bacteria is also detected by making the best use of the same method. Lab Culture Test The last antimicrobial testing method, i.e., lab culture, unfortunately, has no methodology and technique to detect legionella disease in a non-culturable state. But recent studies have also proved that today’s systems and environments have legionella populations, which are not culturable. Concluding Remarks We have talked in detail about Legionella disease and about the tests taken for the same. We have also mentioned for each test their speed, recovery rate, and effects. This Legionella laboratory testing or antimicrobial testing is now taking place at higher levels keeping in mind the possible health risks and effects. Antimicrobial resistance occurs when microbes like bacteria,fungi and viruses evolve over time and create a situation where they hardly respond to treatments making infections tougher to treat and raising the risk of disease spread to severe illness and finally death.Thus it is not enough to talk about antimicrobial rather taking steps to address antimicrobial resistance. In addition, proper care needs to be taken through consultation with an Antimicrobial testing lab to ensure balanced use of antimicrobials. Amid fast evolution of technology, the rise and spread of antimicrobial resistance is a major concern these days.This could prompt people think of the time when there was no antibiotic and common infections became fatal owing to the absence of effective treatments.Modern research has proved that the frequency of resistant bacteria and resistant genes increase in response to the selective pressure created by the use of antibiotics. There is enough evidence that inappropriate and excessive use of antimicrobial has created many problems. To take on the issue effectively, a practice of prudent and judicious antimicrobial usage is desperately needed. This can be possible only if suggestions of experienced health care professionals working at proven antimicrobiology laboratory are properly practiced. If we talk about food processing industries, they can be contaminated with a kind of unwelcome microbes. Thus special efforts are inevitable for the development of coatings intending to improve the antimicrobial efficacy of the facilities. Other major coating considerations include hardness, adhesion to a substrate, and migration of the antimicrobial substance into the food matrix. Let's discuss the changes on paint due to microbial effect. Corrosion - Corrosion of plant equipment and of substrates happen from metabolic remains and acid production. Viscosity change - Polymer dispersion can bethicker or thinner, which is dependent on the effect of increased concentration of acidic byproducts. Increase in viscosity and microbial infection can limit the flow within the factory equipment piping, filters, etc. Color change - Microbes can also take a dig at color of the product before or after the use. The sulfur-reducing bacteria changes the color of the polymer dispersion or the finished product into black. PH change - The metabolic by-products often are acidic in nature. The reduced pH will cause destabilization of the polymer dispersion and promote a corrosive environment both in the factory (surface of plant equipment) and once in service (corrosion of substrates). Gas production - Bacteria can out hydrogen sulfide gas which can be known through different kinds of odors and gas production issues. Odor production - Bacteria mostly reduce sulfur. Other microorganisms have the potential to produce odors based on their biochemical reactions. Today the major concern of antimicrobial resistance has pushed the governments of countries across the globe to take effective actions and come up with appropriate guidelines, recommendations and policies concerning prudent use of antibiotics and containment of antimicrobial resistance. However, such initiatives from countries with high incidence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in food animals are still in infancy. The overarching aim of this evaluation is to delineate the points which need to be carried out urgently to regulate the antibiotic use in animals. Antimicrobials are used in textiles and non-woven materials used in the manufacture of tents, sporting equipment and outdoor furniture to prevent mold and mildew and preserve wood. They are used widely in crop protection to avoid rot and mold, Molluscicides (garden snails) as well as in preserving waterborne metalworking fluids used to lubricate cutting edges for milling steel and other metals. In personal care, they are found in hand sanitizers, wound cleansers, dressings, etc. The US government regulates antimicrobial products as pesticides, and its Food and Drug Administration regulates antimicrobial products as drugs/antiseptics. As pesticides, antimicrobial products are used on objects such as countertops, toys, grocery carts, and hospital equipment. As antiseptics, antimicrobial products are used to treat or prevent diseases on people, pets, and other living things. If a product label claims to kill, control, repel, mitigate or reduce a pest, it is a pesticide regulated by the government itself. When manufacturers make this kind of claim on the label, they must include: • Application instructions that are effective at killing or controlling the pest, and • First aid instructions, in case of accidental exposure. Specific to coatings, surfaces where an antimicrobial could be used include: • Walls and floors in hospitals and other institutions such as schools • Exterior surfaces prone to mold, algae and mildew • Ship bottoms (antifouling coatings) • Public surfaces such as handrails, light switches, etc. Many of the antimicrobial materials used in coatings can also be employed in composites and plastics. Due to the lengthy regulatory approval process for new antimicrobial materials, fewer and fewer new products are launched every year. However, a review of the most recent patent applications, indicates that the patents are focused on applications and less on new chemistry. Companies such as Dow Chemical continue to look at lending products in a portfolio to create new products. These blends have a greater use over the pH range in which coatings are used. Mildew will grow on any untreated surface, as will many types of algae and mold, providing they have the correct nutrients to exist. Due to global regulatory changes, some previously-approved mildewcides as well as other antimicrobials, have been banned from use. This has caused the industry to scramble for replacements. Since 2000, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) registered an 800% increase in nationwide Legionella cases. Despite robust measures and increased Legionella laboratory testing, a 2019 report released by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine found about 52,000 to 70,000 Legionella cases in the U.S. every year. Closer home, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported 140 Legionnaires’ disease cases in the state between January and July 2019 and warned of a high number of cases in the coming years. There have been many cases and reports of legionella outbreaks in many residential and business facilities in the state over the past few years. In December 2020, some researchers in the CDC used prior calculations of medical costs and new estimates of productivity losses and estimated that the annual economic burden of Legionnaires’ disease, in the US alone, was above $800 million. At Biosan Laboratories, a Michigan-based environmental microbiology laboratory, we understand how damaging a Legionella contagion can be. In this blog post, we list the ways you can prevent a Legionella outbreak in your residential or business property. 1. Replenish your building water in regular intervals and let it flow to reduce chlorine depletion and maintain the quality: You need to use replenish your building water at least once every three or four days to reduce the water age and prevent chlorine depletion. You also need to have effective flushing programs that can remove contaminants and low-quality water and provide water with suitable levels of disinfectant residual. 2. Develop and maintain an effective water management program: This enables you in establishing key control point measures. Under this, you will need to develop processes and tests that constantly check the temperature, biocide concentrations, and pH levels. Monitor your water system in regular intervals to prevent any possible hazardous conditions. It is also important to document the activities during this process that will enable you to effectively assess the results. 3. Prevent hazards: Several disinfection methods create more hazardous circumstances in the long run. Avoid the methods that demand hazardous storage, handling, or continual monitoring. You must steer clear of some conventional disinfection methods that may cause harmful side effects or expose you to carcinogens. Select a solution that is non-damaging, non-corrosive, and effective for an entire water distribution system. 4. Regular check and treatment of cooling towers and other aerosol-producing water systems: Cooling towers must be checked regularly, tested for Legionella and disinfected at regular intervals. Other aerosol-producing systems are also required to be cleaned and disinfected regularly. You must regularly flush such as HVAC humidifiers, spas, fountains, and irrigation with the rest of the building water systems. 5. Consider your environment: Waterborne pathogens multiply in hot-water environments and are transmitted via contact, ingestion, and aerosolization. You must identify the areas in your building and water systems where Legionella or other waterborne pathogens can thrive and take the required steps to prevent their multiplication. 6. Follow regular water quality examination, monitoring, analysis, and cleaning strategies: Pay special attention to showers, fountains, tanks, swimming pools, and other water systems in your building and follow regular inspection, monitoring, analysis, and cleaning strategies. 7. Selecting a reliable laboratory that specializes in Legionella testing: For professional intervention and high-quality monitoring and testing, you should select a reliable laboratory that specializes in Legionella testing. A laboratory that is run by a dedicated team of professionals, has years of experience, has relevant certificates to support its credibility, and that provides customized services as per its clients’ needs perfectly fits the bill. At Biosan Laboratories, we specialize in independent Legionella laboratory testing and our lab offers a broad range of Legionella testing processes, which includes testing for the bacteria in cooling towers and building water systems as well as the shipment of sample bottles to the location at no additional charge. To know how we can help you with Legionella testing, contact us for a laboratory services quotation or any additional information. Are you planning to conduct antimicrobial testing in your business facility or residential property? A reliable microbiological laboratory can help you to select the suitable test method for your project and will also help you in developing customized test protocols as per your exact needs. At Biosan Laboratories, we understand the importance of choosing a trustworthy microbiological laboratory for conducting antimicrobial efficacy test. In this blog post, we share some tips to help you find one. Tips to choose a trustworthy microbiological laboratory for antimicrobial efficacy testing Even though you have had never needed the service of a microbiological laboratory until this time, you can select a reliable one by applying the following steps: Explore the laboratories in your city Once you have decided to hire a microbiological laboratory for antimicrobial efficacy test, the next step would be to explore the existing laboratories in the city where your business or residential facility is located. It’s better to choose a local laboratory as they can come over to your location on short notice on a given date and time and can test the samples and send the results in minimum turnaround time. Visit their website Before considering any laboratory, visit their website and look at their ‘Home’ page, ‘About Us’ page, and the services they offer. This will give you a quick insight into their competence, credibility, and background. If possible, visit their ‘Contact’ page and give a call or drop a mail to ask more about how they conduct antimicrobial efficacy test for their clients. Check out the antimicrobial test methods they specialize in If possible, check out the antimicrobial test methods they specialize in. At Biosan Laboratories, our microbiologists specialize in AATCC, ASTM, ISO, and JIS standard antimicrobial test methods and conduct antimicrobial efficacy testing of industrial fluids, inks, paints, plastics, textiles, and construction materials. Look at their years of lab experience The next step is to find out the years of laboratory experience they have in conducting antimicrobial efficacy testing. The more experienced they are in conducting the testing, the more you can rely on them to conduct the tests effectively for you. Biosan Laboratories has more than four decades of lab experience in testing antimicrobials, biocides, and preservatives. Find out if they provide customized services as per the specific needs of the client A reliable microbiological laboratory is well-equipped to customize its testing services as per the needs of its clients and their property compliance. They will always be willing to offer additional value to their services. Like, apart from conducting antimicrobial efficacy testing, they ship the sample bottles at no additional charge. We also offer consulting in antimicrobial testing protocol design for those clients that required customized testing. Take a glance at their certifications and professional affiliations A certificate is verifiable proof of excellence and it adds immense credibility to a company’s or a professional’s competence. A certifying authority accords the certificate only after determining whether the laboratory or professional is capable enough to conduct the tests as effectively as they claim to. Professional affiliations also enhance the reliability and reputation of a laboratory. Biosan Laboratory has numerous professional affiliations including the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists, the Association of Water Technologies, ASTM International, the National Association of Corrosion Engineers, and the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers. To know how we can help you with antimicrobial efficacy testing, contact us for a laboratory services quotation or any additional information. We also manufacture bacteria test kits, fungi test kits, and dipslides to help you monitor the presence of microorganisms in your residential or commercial property. The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the eighth edition of approved code of practice (ACoP L8) “Legionnaires' disease: the control of legionella bacteria in water systems” mandates that all employers, property owners, managers, and commercial tenants must test their workplace buildings for Legionella bacteria. To abide by the laws and keep your workplace safe from Legionella infestation, it is best to hire a reliable company to conduct Legionella laboratory testing services. Hiring a professional and dedicated team will get the testing conducted as per the guidelines and on schedule. For this reason, many commercial property owners and tenants are outsourcing the task to experts. A report “Global Legionella Testing Industry,” released by France-based professional search engine ReportLinker, projected the global market for Legionella Testing at USD244.5 million last year. At Biosan Laboratories, a Michigan-based environmental microbiology laboratory, we specialize in independent Legionella laboratory testing and our lab provides an entire gamut of Legionella testing process, including testing for the bacteria in building water systems and cooling towers as well as the shipment of sample bottles to the location at no additional charge. In this blog post, we list out the reasons why legionella testing is best conducted by professionals and how can they be important for you to keep your water systems safe by complying with every aspect of the regulation. A professional testing company: 1) Understands the guidelines set by ACoP L8 and the 1974 HSW Act and the legislation: A commercial property owner or an employer is mandated by state laws to meet certain health and safety prerequisites to minimize the risk of a Legionella outbreak. A toolkit by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention helps them identify the risks and mitigate them. A professional company will make sure the testing is done as per the guidelines and the conditions mandated by the legislation. The professional testing includes assessments through programs for commercial water systems and ACop L8 standard domestic monitoring. 2) Is certified to carry out the testing: A certifying authority determines whether or not a professional or a company is capable enough to perform a task effectively and efficiently, as they claim to. A reliable legionella testing company is certified to conduct testing and has the certificate to prove that. Biosan Laboratories is certified by the CDC ELITE Program and NYS ELAP (ISO 11731) for Legionella laboratory testing. 3) Knows how often the water systems must be tested: Legionella testing not only differs from property to property but from one water system to another and is dictated by Water Hygiene Risk Assessment. For example, Sentinel taps (both hot and cold water) generally require monthly checks, while incoming cold water inlets require bi-annual checks. It’s recommended for most commercial properties to conduct an annual water sampling. An external company knows the duration within which the water systems of a commercial property must be tested. 4) Provides customized services as per the specific needs of the client: A professional company is well-equipped to customize its testing services as per its clients’ needs and their property compliance. Most of them provide additional value to their services. Apart from conducting a complete Legionella testing process, we ship the sample bottles to our clients at no additional charge. 5) Has extensive knowledge: If you suspect that any of your water systems may be a breeding ground of legionella contamination, you would want to get those tested as soon as possible. Professional testing laboratories have extensive knowledge about legionella, and apart from testing, they will provide you with tips to conduct in-house monitoring. To know how we can help you with legionella testing, contact us for a laboratory services quotation or any additional information. Best Practices for Selecting Suitable Incubation Temperatures and Times for Microbiological Tests1/30/2021 Did you know that different types of microorganisms have different incubation temperatures and time? In this blog post, we discuss the best practices for selection of suitable incubation temperatures and time for microbiological tests. Bacteria, fungi, molds, and other microbes thrive in different temperatures and multiply at varying rates. Their growth can result in various problems. They can reduce the longevity and damage the looks of valuable things as well as alter their electrical, mechanical, and optical properties. Whether you conduct industrial fluid microbiological testing or legionella laboratory testing, choosing the right incubation temperatures and time is crucial in detecting the microbial loads in your residential or commercial establishment. At Biosan Laboratories, a Michigan-based microbiology testing laboratory, we completely understand the sensitivity of various microorganisms to different incubation temperatures and times. Normally, the fungal media was incubated at a temperature of 20°C-25°C for a set number of days; whereas the bacterial media was incubated at a temperature of 30°C-35°C for a specified number of days. But for better results and efficacy of the testing methods, certain incubation temperature and time have been recommended by some eminent organizations. While choosing, there is a need to strike a balance between suitable incubation temperature/time and risk. Devising a smart incubation strategy and adopting an effective testing method will help you achieve more effective results. In this blog post, we have listed a range of approved incubation strategies that should be used while conducting microbiological tests. The following best practice selections are listed below: • For water testing, United States Pharmacopoeia chapter Water for Pharmaceutical Purposes (USP ) recommends an incubation time of 48 to 72 hours. Whereas, the European Pharmacopoeia (EP) recommends an incubation time that is less than or equal to five days with Reasoner's 2A agar (R2A media) at 30 to 35°C. • For EM testing, the recently revised United States Pharmacopoeia chapter Microbiological Control and Monitoring of Aseptic Processing Environments (USP ) recommends an incubation time of not less than 72 hours with the incubation temperature at 20 to 35°C. • As per “EM Monitoring of Clean Rooms for Vaccine Manufacturing” (WHO November 2012) the incubation time is recommended between three and five days with incubation temperature at 20 to 25°C followed by additional two to three days at 30 to 35°C. • As per a European Medicines Agency (EMA) Q&A session, “Incubation Temperatures for Microbial EMP Samples,” it was recommended to use two incubation temperatures:- 20 to 25°C for at least three days and 30 to 35°C for at least two days. • While evaluating a new sterility test method, the data of Grace Kielpinski and her associate researchers indicated that an incubation temperature of 32°C provided greater detection of the microorganisms in the test method compared to other temperatures obtained using the incubation conditions. • As per an article, titled ‘Comparative Mold and Yeast Recovery Analysis’, by Veronica Marshall and her colleagues the use of a single media and two different temperature ranges is recommended for bacteria and fungi. We manufacture bacteria test kits, fungi test kits, and dipslides to help you monitor the presence of microorganisms in your residential or commercial property. In all our products, we have mentioned the effective incubation temperatures and time in each one of them. We have over 40 years of experience in fungus testing and developing fungus test kits and we also provide consulting in antimicrobial testing protocol design. Our microbial laboratory can help you in selecting the right test method for your project and our microbiologists specialize in AATCC, ASTM, ISO, and JIS standard antimicrobial test methods. Contact us to discuss specifics with our team of expert microbiologists or ask for a free quote. In December 2020, some researchers in Centers for Disease Control and Prevention used previous calculations of medical costs and new estimates of productivity losses, and estimated that the annual economic burden of Legionnaires’ disease—a serious and sometimes fatal type of pneumonia—was above $800 million in the US alone. At Biosan Laboratories, a Michigan-based environmental microbiology laboratory, we understand how damaging an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease can be—especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic—and we specialize in independent Legionella laboratory testing. The bacterium Legionnaires pneumophila mainly grows in moist places, including cooling towers, air conditioners, spas, dentistry tools, hot and cold water systems, and infects the lungs through inhalation of contaminated airborne droplets. Its symptoms are similar to the novel coronavirus infection and other types of pneumonia, which ranges from dry cough, chills, high fever, body ache and headache. Legionella is found to multiply in warm water above 20 °C and below 50 °C and is usually found in the water systems of many residential and commercial establishments where a robust Legionella management system is not in place. Cases of Legionellosis have been found in facilities with low levels of Legionella, which proves that the bacterium doesn’t have a known safe level. Legionnaires disease does not spread person to person; people are infected only when they inhale the droplets containing the bacteria. Risk factors for exposure include: • Overnight stay in a facility that is a breeding ground for the bacteria. • Exposure to contaminated hot tubs or other plumbing equipment. • Travel to a contaminated site. Though most healthy people seldom get infected after an initial exposure, some people are at higher risk of developing serious complications such as: • People above 50 years of age • Smokers • Individuals with compromised immune systems from diseases, such as cancer, chronic lung diseases, diabetes, liver or kidney failure as well as those who take immunosuppressant drugs Therefore it is crucial to conduct routine tests to determine whether or not your residential property or commercial facility is a host to the hazardous bacteria. In this blog post, we detail why you should get tested for Legionella on a regular basis. If you are a business owner, or a landlord, you are mandated by state laws to meet certain health and safety prerequisites to minimize the risk of a Legionella outbreak. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has developed a toolkit to help property owners design water management program and identify the areas conducive for the growth and spread of Legionella as well as the measures to reduce that risk. The financial and legal consequences of failing to abide by the regulations can be severe. Some law firms in Michigan have dedicated lawyers who investigate cases of legionellosis outbreaks at hotels and medical facilities. They file lawsuits against the entities proven to be the source of the outbreak, which results in penalizing owners with several thousands of dollars. When should you test for Legionella? As there is no known safe level for the bacterium, a regular test is necessary to know if your property is a host to the hazardous bacteria. You should consider a Legionella laboratory test if: • You reside or operate your commercial establishment in a high-risk zone, or there is a population with increased susceptibility. It is even more critical during a pandemic such as COVID-19. • You identify a case or outbreak of legionellosis and suspect your water system or cooling tower to be a breeding ground for the bacterium. • Your water system is being treated with biocides and the limits of a control regime are not being consistently achieved. Certified by the NYS ELAP (ISO 11731) and CDC ELITE Program for Legionella laboratory testing, our lab will assist you with a comprehensive Legionella testing process, which includes shipping sample bottles to the location of your choice at no additional charge. Contact us for a laboratory services quotation or any additional information. Did you know that bacteria and other microorganisms can breed in industrial fluids and can clog filters, reduce fluid function, emanate bad smell, and pose severe health risks? Biosan Laboratories, an environmental microbiology laboratory specializing in bacteria tests and developing bacteria test kits since 1973, has seen how bacterial growth in industrial fluids can reduce production and increase costs. When left untreated, industrial fluids are contaminated with bacteria and pathogens that can lead to pH drift, split emulsions, decrease in cooling, lubricity, and other fluid performance as well as pose several health and environmental risks. More than 300 types of bacteria are responsible for contaminating industrial fluids and coolants, but there are five bacteria that are ubiquitous in industrial settings: • Bacillus: These are Gram-positive bacteria, which are unable to produce endotoxins. The genus includes B. cereus and B. subtilis, which are the most common microorganisms in industrial fluids. The former can cause food poisoning, while the latter is a non-pathogenic bacteria. • Brevundimonas: These are endotoxins-producing Gram-negative bacteria. The genus has B. diminuta, the most commonly occurring bacteria in industrial fluids. • Mycobacteria: These include M. avium, M. immunogenum, and M. chelonae, which are opportunistic microorganisms and responsible for causing hypersensitivity pneumonitis among the workers who are exposed to industrial fluids aerosols. The symptoms can range from breathlessness, fever, dry cough, and muscle problems, and repeated exposure can result in chronic diseases. • Pseudomonas: More than 50 per cent of bacteria that grow in industrial fluids belong to this genus. These include P. stutzeri, P. putida, P. aeruginosa, P. pseudoalcaligenes, and P. oleovorans. Except P. putida, all others can cause infections in people with weak immunity. • Stenotrophomonas: These are endotoxins-producing Gram-negative bacteria and S. maltophilia is one of the most commonly occurring bacteria from this genus that is responsible for fatal infections in people with considerably weak immunity. How bacteria can affect industrial fluids? Apart from being contaminants, the mere presence of different types of bacteria can impair the performance of industrial fluids. They can actively break down the fluids and attack the emulsifiers thereby making them less stable and effective. Also, some bacteria cause biofilm and slime, which ends up clogging filters and causing corrosion. This results in decreased tool performance, lower tool life, a slump in output, and increased rejection rates. Furthermore, bacterial growth in your industrial fluids can also cause health hazards and environmental safety issues, which can worsen at the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. Contamination of water and environment Apart from affecting your industrial fluids, bacteria can also contaminate water and the environment near your facility. This can result in environmental degradation, which can cause the Environmental Protection Agency to intervene and slap hefty fines after detecting disease-causing bacteria and pathogens. A comprehensive water and environment test can identify the presence of harmful bacteria and eliminate them before they cause environmental and health hazards. Bacteria tests to eliminate bacterial growth A bacteria test in your industrial facility can help you determine what types of bacteria are present in the industrial fluids and can help you take the corrective course of action. At Biosan Laboratories, we offer antimicrobial testing of industrial fluids, paints, plastics, inks, textiles, and construction materials. Our microbial laboratory can select the right test method for your project and design test protocols for your specific requirements. We have more than 40 years of experience in testing biocides, antimicrobials, and preservatives, and our team of experts specialize in AATCC, ASTM, ISO, and JIS standard antimicrobial test methods. Apart from conducting antimicrobial tests, we also manufacture several bacteria test kits to help you monitor the presence of bacteria in industrial fluids and cooling towers. |
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June 2021
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