The Effect of Relative Humidity on the Survival of Three Serotypes ofKlebsiella

摘要

Summary.Any factor which enhances the survival of human pathogens in the hospital environment can result in increased exposure of the patient to such pathogens and perhaps contribute to an increase in patient infections.Klebsiellaserotypes 3, 9 and 69 were exposed on glass to relative humidities (R.H.) of 11, 33, 53 and 85. Death rates for all serotypes, at a constant 25°, could be correlated with the amount of moisture in the air. Prolonged survival was demonstrated at 11 and 33 R.H. with an increased death rate at 53 and 85. The implications of this phenomenon are discussed