Candida auris Dry Surface Biofilm (DSB) for Disinfectant Efficacy Testing

Abstract

<i>Candida auris</i> is an emerging pathogen that needs to be controlled effectively due to its association with a high mortality rate. The presence of biofilms on dry surfaces has been shown to be widespread in healthcare settings. We produced a <i>C. auris</i> dry surface biofilm (DSB) on stainless steel surfaces following sequential hydration and desiccation cycles for 12 days. The ASTM2967-15 was used to measure the reduction in viability of 12 commercially wipe-based disinfectants and sodium hypochlorite (1000 ppm) against <i>C. auris</i> DSB. We also evaluated <i>C. auris</i> transferability and biofilm regrowth post-treatment. A peracetic acid (3500 ppm) product and two chlorine-based products (1000 ppm available chlorine) were successful in reducing <i>C. auris</i> viability and delaying DSB regrowth. However, 50% of the products tested failed to decrease <i>C. auris</i> viability, 58% failed to prevent its transferability, and 75% did not delay biofilm regrowth. Using three different parameters to measure product efficacy provided a practical evaluation of product effectiveness against <i>C. auris</i> DSB. Although log₁₀ reduction in viability is traditionally measured, transferability is an important factor to consider from an infection control and prevention point of view as it allows for determination of whether the surface is safe to touch by patients and hospital staff post-treatment.