
I don't think I'll be changing my responses.  There is a common theme among some of the industry regarding lengthening contact time back to the 2hr in the original protocol and to have a way to show continual activity whether this is done by multiple repeat inoculations or an additional reinoculation at some time point.  I do not have a problem with this.

My main concern with extending the time post inoculation is that the registrants would also account for loss because of the drying of inocula  (remember stainless steel has different surface properties that could influence persistence/survival).

Also I know the copper industry likes to influence others with the DoD clinical trial.  This is one small study (not well controlled and with potential bias).  One small study is not a body of evidence that copper surfaces prevent HAI.  We also believe much to industries dismay that not everything in a patient room would have to be clad in antimicrobial surfaces.

Our thoughts on what would be needed is in the attached editorial [McDonald & Arduino. 2012]

Matt. 

