Microbial Testing Services

The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently announced an investigation into invasive group A streptococcal (iGAS) infections in West Hawai?i. The DOH initiated the investigation after a physician reported an unusually high number of cases over several months. Officials are working to determine whether infections are increasing and to better understand potential transmission within the community.

Group A Streptococcus bacteria are commonly found on the skin or in the throat and typically cause mild illness. In rare cases, they can become invasive, entering the bloodstream or other sterile areas and leading to severe disease. While the overall risk remains low, early detection and prevention are critical.

EMSL Analytical, Inc. is a leading provider of laboratory testing for environmental and infection control needs. The company supports healthcare professionals, public health officials, and facility managers in cases like this. They analyze air, water, and surface samples to detect harmful microorganisms, including those associated with healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and community-associated infections (CAIs).

“Understanding where microbial exposure risks exist indoors is essential for protecting vulnerable populations,” said Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Our laboratory services deliver the results to help guide mitigation strategies. They can also be used to verify the effectiveness of cleaning and disinfection protocols, especially in high-risk environments such as healthcare facilities, long-term care centers, shelters, and other settings.”

For more information about EMSL’s environmental and infection control laboratory testing services and sampling supplies, visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675, or email info@EMSL.com.

 

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products, and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.