Reliable analysis of mycobacteria and NTM
Mycobacteria, including non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), are common in water and healthcare environments. In vulnerable patients, these bacteria can cause serious respiratory and skin infections.
Normec supports hospitals and clinics with reliable analyses of mycobacteria, including Mycobacterium chimaera. With rapid detection, potential outbreaks can be detected early and risks to patients reduced.
We offer both qPCR testing and culture methods and analyze water samples from heater-cooler units and other water-related systems, among others.
Our approach to mycobacteria testing
Our specialists perform analyses according to recognized guidelines and accredited methods. Thanks to rapid qPCR analyses, you receive results within 48 hours, allowing you to act quickly in case of possible contamination.
In addition to general detection of mycobacteria, we can identify specific species, including:
- Mycobacterium chimaera
- Mycobacterium abscessus
- Mycobacterium avium
We analyze both direct water samples and positive culture samples and support organizations in monitoring, risk management and compliance.
Our approach to mycobacteria testing
Our specialists perform analyses according to recognized guidelines and accredited methods. Thanks to rapid qPCR analyses, you receive results within 48 hours, allowing you to act quickly in case of possible contamination.
In addition to general detection of mycobacteria, we can identify specific species, including:
- Mycobacterium chimaera
- Mycobacterium abscessus
- Mycobacterium avium
We analyze both direct water samples and positive culture samples and support organizations in monitoring, risk management and compliance.
Rapid detection in healthcare environments
Early detection of mycobacteria helps healthcare facilities reduce infection risks and keep equipment safe in use.
Normec's support includes:
- qPCR analysis of mycobacteria.
- Culture methods for NTM detection
- Speciation of high-risk species
- Water and air sampling of heating coolers
- Research according to Public Health England guidelines
With these analyses you can:
- Identify potential outbreaks early
- Better protect vulnerable patients
- Reduce risks within healthcare environments
- Comply with national guidelines and protocols
- Continue to use equipment safely and responsibly
Expertise in heater-cooler units and water testing
Contaminated heater-cooler units have been associated with infections during cardiac surgeries. Therefore, reliable monitoring of these systems is essential.
Normec performs water and air analyses around heater-cooler units according to Public Health England guidelines. In addition, we also analyze for other relevant parameters, such as:
- Legionella
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa
- TVCs
- Moulds
Our specialists have extensive knowledge of sampling, culture methods and microbiological analyses within healthcare environments.
Working together for safe healthcare environments
Reliable monitoring of mycobacteria helps healthcare facilities reduce infection risks and provide safe care to patients and employees. Normec supports you with rapid analysis, expert advice and reliable reporting for effective risk management and compliance.
Do you want to know more about mycobacteria and heater-cooler units?
Frequently Asked Questions
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NTM are mycobacteria that occur naturally in water and the environment but can cause infections in vulnerable patients.
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Mycobacterium chimaera is a specific NTM species that has been associated with infections via contaminated heater-cooler units.
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These systems can spread aerosols containing mycobacteria, which can contaminate patients during medical procedures.
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qPCR testing provides rapid results within 48 hours, whereas traditional culture methods can take several weeks.
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Normec analyzes water samples, air samples and positive cultures, among other things.
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Yes. In addition to mycobacteria, we analyse hundreds of other microbiological parameters, including for example Legionella, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E. coli and Staphylococcus species.