PREVALENCE OF BACTERIA OF PUBLIC HEALTH SIGNIFICANCE ON TODDLER’S PALM

The toddler years (1–3 years) are a vulnerable period for infectious diseases due to developing immunity and exploratory behavior. This study investigated bacterial pathogens among 20 toddlers in a public school located in Benin City, focusing on microbial load and antibiotic resistance. Palm swab samples were cultured on Nutrient Agar (NA), MacConkey Agar (MCA), and Mannitol Salt Agar (MSA) to quantify total bacteria, Gram-negative enterics, and Staphylococcus spp. Plates were incubated at 37°C for 24 hours, and colony-forming units per milliliter (CFU/mL) were calculated using colony counts and dilution factors. Mean CFU/mL values in males were: NA (42.1), MCA (16.3), MSA (12.7); in females: NA (29.8), MCA (39.9), MSA (21.5). Isolates underwent antibiotic susceptibility testing using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. Results were interpreted using Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Resistance Index (R.I.) was calculated as: number of antibiotics resisted ÷ total tested. R.I. ranged from 0.2 to 0.6, with notable resistance to ampicillin and amoxicillin. Identified bacteria included Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus spp., Klebsiella spp., Enterobacter spp., and Yersinia spp., indicating fecal and environmental contamination. The findings highlight poor hand hygiene and confirm that daycare centers can serve as reservoirs for antimicrobial- resistant pathogens. This underscores the urgent need for better hygiene practices, antimicrobial stewardship, and infection control measures in childcare settings.