ISOLATION OF BACTERIA FROM THE SURFACE OF MOBILE PHONE
Abstract
Mobile phones have become indispensable tools for communication in modern society and are frequently handled throughout the day. Continuous handling, coupled with the heat generated by these devices, creates a favorable environment for the survival and multiplication of microorganisms. This study was carried out to investigate the presence and types of microorganisms associated with mobile phones and to assess their potential role in the transmission of infectious agents. Samples were collected from mobile phone surfaces using sterile swabs and cultured on appropriate media for microbial isolation. The isolates were identified using standard microbiological techniques. The results revealed the presence of several pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms, including Staphylococcus aureus, coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, Escherichia coli, Proteus mirabilis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The occurrence of these organisms indicates poor hygiene practices and highlights the role of mobile phones as potential fomites for disease transmission. The study underscores the importance of regular hand hygiene and routine disinfection of mobile phones to reduce microbial contamination and minimize public health risks.
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