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Bacteria and microbes are everywhere. While most are harmless, or even beneficial, some do cause disease. People with cystic fibrosis may be affected by bacteria that are otherwise harmless in healthy people.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a potentially dangerous bacterium for people with CF, thrives in moist environments. Here they can form communities called biofilms, like the ‘sludge’ found in drains.
Last winter, an outbreak of P. aeruginosa at a Canadian hospital, could be traced back to a sink. When the faucet was turned on, water droplets contaminated with P. aeruginosa splashed out of the sink and onto nearby patients, eventually causing infection. The hospital has since installed different sinks with a splash guard.
Cystic Fibrosis Canada invests significantly in research related to infection in cystic fibrosis. In 2009-2010, Cystic Fibrosis Canada spent more than $1.7 million on 24 projects investigating different microorganisms and aspects of infection. This research may lead to treatments that fight these organisms and help Canadians with cystic fibrosis live healthier lives.
Help us fund important projects like this. Donate now!
Reviewed/updated: 2011-01-31
