Survey of Clostridium difficile and Methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus in Swimming Pools

Abstract

Limited research in the U.S. exists exploring Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Clostridium difficile in pool water. Previous studies in Europe and Africa detected MRSA and C. difficile in 7.5% and 50% of pool water samples, respectively. No research has explored the presence of either bacteria on pool surfaces, like shared swim equipment and pool walls or floors. This study aims to explore the presence of MRSA and C. difficile in U.S. pool water and the surrounding environment. C. difficile is a spore-forming, fecal-oral pathogen that spreads rapidly and can survive harsh environments. The bacterium is capable of causing severe damage to the colon and can be fatal. MRSA is an antibiotic resistant pathogen transmitted through direct contact with an infected individual or through contact with contaminated surfaces or media. To date, 10 swimming pool water samples and 10 swab samples from pool walls, floors, and shared equipment (kick boards, weights, chairs, etc.) have been collected and tested in Eau Claire, WI for MRSA and Clostridium difficile. No samples have tested positive for either organism. This study is ongoing and expected to be completed spring, 2020.