title: The role of fomites in the transmission of vaginitis.
abstract: A role for fomites such as toilet seats in the transmission of vaginitis has never been proved or disproved. A compilation of clinical data from a university community showed that the organisms found in vaginal cultures of patients with vaginitis were, in order of frequency. Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, beta-hemolytic streptococci, Hemophilus vaginalis and Trichomonas vaginalis. In a concurrent bacteriologic survey of washroom fixtures, staphylococci and other micrococci were isolated most frequently. The overt pathogens associated with vaginitis were never found, and gram-negative organisms appeared to be suppressed by the disinfectant used by the cleaning staff. It is clear that fomites are not an important mode of transmission in vaginitis, although a search for specific pathogens on toilets is to be continued.
mesh_terms: D001419:Bacteria / Q000302:isolation & purification; D001431:Bacteriological Techniques; D001494:Baths; D002176:Candida albicans / Q000302:isolation & purification; D004781:Environmental Exposure; D004926:Escherichia coli / Q000302:isolation & purification; D005260:Female; D006194:Gardnerella vaginalis / Q000302:isolation & purification; D006801:Humans; D009864:Ontario; D012572:School Health Services; D013210:Staphylococcus / Q000302:isolation & purification; D013297:Streptococcus pyogenes / Q000302:isolation & purification; D014038:Toilet Facilities; D014246:Trichomonas vaginalis / Q000302:isolation & purification; D014621:Vagina / Q000382:microbiology; D014627:Vaginitis / Q000635:transmission*