Commonly Used Public Facility Devices as Potential Sources of Infections

Abstract

Surfaces and devices in public institutions are likely to be contaminated with various microorganisms as people congregate there for various reasons. Swab samples from devices like ATMs, seats, teller counters, door handles, pens, writing desks, toilet flush handles, and tap heads were obtained from banks and churches. 60 samples in all were cultured and isolates were identified using Gram stain reaction, morphological, and biochemical characteristics. Results indicated a 100% microbial contamination on all surfaces with Staphylococcus aureus having the highest frequency, 35(31.5%). Bacilli spp had the next highest frequency, 23(20.7%). Klebsiella spp 13 (11.7%), Salmonella spp 13(11.7%), Enterobacter spp 13(11.7%), Serratia spp 6(5.4%), Citrobacter spp 4(3.6%), Proteus 3(2.8%) and Streptococcus 1(0.90%) followed in that order. Commonly used public facilities' devices could serve as potential sources of infections due to their microbial contamination. It is highly recommended amidst this pandemic to have frequent proper hand hygiene to avoid unknowing contamination.