As healthcare facilities grapple with ways to cut down environmental bioburden, the potency of copper-embedded textiles is creating waves. In the second part of a discussion hosted by Infection Control Today® (ICT®), experts delve into how copper-infused fabrics can bolster ongoing infection preventative measures by lowering microbial loads on frequently touched surfaces.
In the course of the dialogue, experts clarified that the antimicrobial action of copper-embedded materials commences almost instantaneously. Microbiology and immunology professor at the Medical University of South Carolina, Michael Schmidt, PhD, demonstrated that the interaction between microbes and the copper begins right when they come into contact, leading to rapid and multifaceted microbial death.
Schmidt accentuated that the mechanism of action is multifaceted and quick, making it difficult and nearly impossible for microbes to develop resistance. He underscored the copper’s proficiency against a broad spectrum of bacteria and viruses, including the notorious norovirus, a common menace in healthcare settings.
Backing these claims with quantifiable data, Maggie Thieman, MD, explained that within a half-hour, there’s consistently an about 2 to 3 log reduction in common pathogens. The rate increases within a couple of hours reaching a 4 log reduction for pathogens such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, vancomycin-resistant enterococci, and Clostridioides difficile, with near complete kill after about 4 hours. Adding to her remarks, she stated that the fabrics remain effective even between washes and are soft and comfortable.
The panelists also expanded on the broader advantages for infection prevention architectures. Highlighting that reducing the bulk of environmental microbes lessens risk, Schmidt imparted that ‘dose matters’. Reflecting on the technological advancements in textile processing that facilitate such efforts, Eddie Lefeaux, CEO and cofounder of Westport Linen Services, discussed their stricter regulatory environment and the observation that these copper-infused linens are durable and maintain performance even after extensive washing.
Ultimately, the experts alluded to how antimicrobial copper textiles could provide a significant boost to infection control strategies by minimizing environmental bioburden, thereby promoting safer patient care.