Waterborne Outbreaks in Hemodialysis Patients and Infection Prevention

Individuals treated with dialysis are at high risk for healthcare-associated infections. We conducted a literature review of outbreaks associated with water in hemodialysis during years 2011–2021 to understand the role of water as a source of infections for patients receiving hemodialysis with a focus on the risks associated with dialysis water and dialysate. For dialysis patients, water and dialysate have been a source of healthcare-associated pathogens, including nontuberculous mycobacteria and gram-negative bacilli as well as systemic reactions due to gram-negative bacilli–associated endotoxin. Lapses in infection prevention practices and dialysis water management were primarily involved in waterborne outbreaks. Dialysis clinics should adhere to recommendations regarding monitoring and levels of bacteria and endotoxin in hemodialysis water and dialysate. Since hemodialysis patients are at increased risk of healthcare-associated infections, it is important for healthcare personnel to adhere to infection prevention guidelines in hemodialysis patient care, especially hand hygiene, aseptic technique, cleaning/disinfection, and water management.