A study of microbial distribution and cell phone hygiene awareness at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Jeli Campus

Abstract

Cell phones are an essential device for today’s people. The warm environment on the cell phone may cause continuous growth of bacteria which can include harmful pathogens. This research aimed to determine if there is a relationship between gender and the daily routine environment with the bacteria count on the cell phone. The data were analysed using the chi-square test and the results showed no relationship (P>0.05). In addition, a survey questionnaire was conducted to study the common habits that are conducive to a microbial distribution pattern on a cell phone. Some of the common habits were using the cell phones while in the washroom and improper cell phone cleaning methods. The behavior of using the cell phone while dining and the microbial distribution pattern were found to be independent. This study aimed to provide awareness on the importance of keeping cell phones clean to minimize microbial contamination.