Title: Computer Keyboards And Mice: As Reservoirs For Bacteria Pathogens
Authors: Ehiwario N.J., Eromosele E.O., Braimah M., Orogu J.O., Obiebe P.O., Okobia U.B., Agbamuche R and Idollo E.
Volume: 9
Issue: 6
Pages: 80-87
Publication Date: 2025/06/28
Abstract:
Improvement in science and technology brings about massive utilization of computers which help to reduce difficulties in organizations. This study explored the antibacterial resistance pattern of bacteria isolated from the keyboards and mice by single and multiple users at the Southern Delta University, Ozoro. A total of 157 samples comprising of 136 multiple users and 21 single users. Eight (8) bacteria genera were isolated from samples and they include Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus species, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Morganella morganii, Streptococcus species and Citrobacter freundii. The study also revealed that Staphylococcus aureus has the highest prevalence of occurrence from multiple users 58(32.2%) followed by Bacillus species 41(22.8%) while the least was Citrobacter freundii 4(2.2%). The occurrence of these pathogenic bacteria on the surfaces of the keyboards and mice, resulting to reservoirs and sources of cross-contamination of pathogenic bacterial infections among the students and the university community. Almost all the bacteria isolates obtained in this study were noted to present a resistant population of 74% and above to the antibiotics tested except for Streptococcus species that was 13%, 17%, 46% and 50% for penicillin, ampicillin, cefazolin, and cefuroxime respectively. This shows that most of these bacteria are highly resistant to the commonly used antibiotics and this implies a public health risk. Hence, proper cleaning, personal hygiene should be adopted before and after using the computers to reduce microbial transmission. Also the keyboards and mice should be properly covered to prevent dust from settling on the computer surfaces.