Acinetobacter baumannii has the capability of long-term survival
in both dry and wet hospital environments.1 This pathogen produces
a biofilm in water and has been isolated from water systems
in medical facilities.2We experienced an outbreak of amikacin- and
ciprofloxacin-resistant (hereinafter designated drug-resistant [DR])
A baumannii in the emergency intensive care unit (EICU) at Tokai
University Hospital. The drinking tap water had been contaminated
as a reservoir, and thus oral care with this tap water was a route of
transmission. Here we describe the study of this outbreak of DR A
baumannii in the EICU and measures implemented to control
infection.