Epidemiology Alert: Your Top Ten Personal Fomites

A Fomite is an inanimate object or substance, such as clothing, furniture, etc, that is capable of transmitting infectious organisms from one individual to another. It is imperative that Health Care Providers clean their hands and remove transient bacteria before and after visiting their patients. In addition, they also need to eliminate any reservoir from their personal belongings to avoid recontamination of their hands. The above statement does not only apply to Health Care Providers but to all of as well. The Department Of Healthcare Epidemiology And Infection Prevention has listed the Top Ten Personal Fomites that may constitute a reservoir for health care associated bacteria.

1. Cell Phones, Blackberry, I pods, etc.
2. Stethoscopes and Diaphragms
3. Writing tools, e.g. pens
4. Briefcase/satchel/purse
5. Ties
6. Otoscopes
7. Glasses
8. Watches, rings
9. Computer keyboards and mouse
10. Keys/ID card

To Learn More About Fomites Click Here
Epidemiology June 2009 [PDF]