The mortality of the haemolytic Streptococcus on the skin and on other surfaces

Abstract

1. A new technique is described for recovering applied organisms from the skin and other surfaces.2. Experiments are analysed, in which staphylococci and streptococci are recovered by this technique from various areas of the skin and from glass and rubber.3. It is concluded that the surfaces examined can be arranged in a definite order of decreasing disinfectant power.4. The peculiar disinfectant power of rubber is considered.5. The deterioration in surface viability of streptococci still surviving in saline suspension is described.6. The experimental results are discussed in the light of previous investigations.My grateful thanks are due to Professor J. B. Duguid, Department of Pathology and Bacteriology, Welsh National School of Medicine, Cardiff, for his patient counsel and criticism, and to Mr J. P. Napper, Technical Assistant for his skill in making apparatus and his help in the experimental work.