BIONOMICS OF THE STAPHYLOCOCCUS IN THE NASAL CARRIER
Abstract
The results of the investigation show that substances that inhibit the growth of colonies of bacteria were demonstrated. These diffuse through an agar impregnated bacterial filter. Gram-negative bacteria are most inhibitory to other bacteria, but show little interaction with other species of gram-negative bacteria. Strains of Staphylococcus aureus show little inhibition against other species, but exhibit mutual inhibition against other strains of staphylococci. Ninety-four per cent of 32 medical students carried Mycoplasma species. Forty-one per cent carried gram-negative flora in their nostrils; 31 per cent in their throats. Initially 50 per cent and 34 per cent were persistant nasal and throat carriers respectively of S. aureus. After exposure to the hospital environment, these figures shifted to 65 and 63 per cent - a 22 per cent increase in rate of carriage. Statistical analysis of the data indicate possible in vivo evidence for the antibacterial interaction of organisms. The importance of gram-negative infection as a cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with life endangering illness was demonstrated.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 21, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0466786
Entities
People
- Carl W. Walter
- Ruth B. Kundsinl