Infections acquired during a hospital visit (nosocomial infections) and the objects that are contaminated with infectious organisms and serve in their transmission (fomites) led researchers to study clipper blades. Contaminated clipper blades have been cited as potential fomites in veterinary and human medicine. The study also reviewed cleaning, disinfection and storage protocols. The category of cleaning solutions had a significant association with bacterial contamination. Fifty one percent of clipper blades examined in the study were contaminated with bacteria.
Source: Journal of the American Animal Association, March/April 2016. (link to abstract only)
Clipper blades may serve as a potential source of bacterial transmission. Proper cleaning and disinfection of blades is likely important in reducing this potential risk to animals and hospital personnel. Further studies are necessary to determine ideal cleaning and disinfection protocols.