Evaluation of Microbial Contamination in Frequently Used Fomites in Kuwait

Abstract

The occurrence of potential pathogens and the levels of contamination at individual sites, particularly in fitness club, gas station, home, hospital, and supermarket in Kuwait is described in this paper. The samples were collected using sterile swab sticks. Results obtained showed the highest bacterial count of 2.8 log10 CFU/ml in bathroom doorknobs at gas station, while the least was obtained from pantry in hospital with 1.3 log10 CFU/ml. Prevalent isolated bacterial contaminants were Staphylococcus epidermidis (34%), followed by Enterococcus faecalis (26%), Staphylococcus aureus (14%), Escherichia coli (10%), Streptococcus pyogenes and Pseudomonas alcaligenes (4%), Streptococcus agalactiae, Klebsiella oxytoca, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (2%). Eighty percent of all swab samples cultured were gram positive and 20% were gram negative bacteria. The types and numbers of disease- causing microbes reported in previous epidemiological studies were also found in this study. Appropriate hygienic measures to suppress any potential microbial cross- contamination are therefore needed. It is also imperative to conduct regular testing to check for bacterial contamination and increase community awareness and education for hygienic standards. Keywords: