Sterile Swab Stick Research Articles

Organisms Causing Postoperative Implant Infection in Orthopedic Patients Presenting at a Tertiary Care Hospital.

Introduction Infections pose a significant challenge in orthopedics related to implant failure. In orthopedic surgeries, surgical site infections (SSIs) extend the patient's hospital stay by an average of two weeks and also increase morbidity, double hospitalization rates, and triple the financial burden on the patient. This study aims to determine the common organism in patients with postoperative implant infections presenting at a tertiary care hospital. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at JPMC Karachi over a six-month period, from November 24, 2022, to May 25, 2023. All patients of both genders aged 18-65 years presenting with postoperative implant infection within six hours of the development of symptoms were enrolled. Baseline demographic details and clinical histories were recorded at the time of presentation. A swab for culture and sensitivity was taken from the implant site using a sterile swab stick in patients with confirmed or suspected infections. Results Of 196 patients, the mean age of the patients was 48.47±5.19 years. Gender distribution showed that 49% of patients were females and 51% were males. The mean duration of surgery was 1.71±0.49 hours (100 minutes approximately);Klebsiella species 26% and Staphylococcus aureus25.5% were the most common organisms isolated from infected surgical wounds, followed by Pseudomonas species in 32 patients (16.3%), Acinetobacter species in 27 patients (13.8%), Escherichia Coliin 23 patients (11.7%), and coagulase-negativeStaphylococcusin 13 patients (6.6%). Conclusion In our cohort, Staphylococcus species and Klebsiella species were the most common pathogens isolated from postoperative implant infections. The rise in Klebsiella species suggests that changes in prophylactic antibiotic practices may have contributed to this trend. Therefore, there is an urgent need to reassess current prophylactic strategies in light of the increasing incidence of infections caused by gram-negative bacteria.

Molecular Characterization and Antibiotic Susceptibility Pattern of Commonly Encountered Bacteria from Wound Infection in Diabetic Patients Attending Specialist Hospital, Bauchi, Bauchi State

Diabetic wounds are significantly more susceptible to wound infection by bacteria as well as external contamination than non-diabetic wounds. This study characterized and determined the antibiotic susceptibility pattern of commonly encountered bacteria from wound infection in diabetic patients attending Specialist Hospital, Bauchi, involving 120 diabetic and 120 non-diabetic patients from February to May, 2023. Socio demographic data was collected using structured questionnaire, and sterile swab stick was used in sample collection the subjects and immediately processed for characterization of bacterial isolates according to the standard district microbiological laboratory techniques while Kirby Bauer disk diffusion technique was adopted for susceptibility testing of the isolates. Among diabetic and non-diabetic cases, majority of patients were in the age group 51-60 and the least were in the age group 11-20. The predominant organism isolated was Staphylococcus aureus (41.7%) in both diabetic and non-diabetic wounds. In diabetic wounds, the predominant Gramnegative bacteria were Pseudomonas aeruginosa (20.8%) followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (17.5%) and Escherichia coli (3.3%) and in non-diabetic wounds, the predominant organism was K. pneumoniae (21.7%) followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (17.5%) and E. coli (13.3%). A total of five (5) antibiotics from Gram negative and five (5) from Gram positive disks, which represent the most commonly prescribed antibiotics for treatment of wound infections in the study area, were used in the study. In this study Levofloxacin (71.25%), Chloramphenicol (81.25%) and Gentamicin (69.6%) were effective for S. aureus from all patients, Erythromycin (52.65%) has intermediate effect. From the other hand, Gentamicin (73.7%), Streptomycin (72.4%) and Ampicillin (80.7%) were effective for P. aeruginosa, K. pneumoniae and E. coli. Treatment of wound infections has to be made based on the culture and susceptibility test results for the choice of appropriate antibiotics with maximum efficacy.

Multiple drug resistant enterobacteria from biofilms in some tap water supplies in a Nigerian university

Tap outlets have been found to contain biofilms, which are a consortium of bacteria, fungi, viruses and protozoa. These microorganisms, especially Gram negative bacteria, could be pathogenic and highly resistant to antibiotics, leading to an increase in the prevalence of diseases worldwide. The university community depends on water from boreholes for consumption and domestic uses; as such, the need to identify the Gram negative bacteria is expedient. The main objective of this research is to determine the potability of the water released from the taps, and ultimately reduce the incidence of biofilm-related water infections. Water samples were collected from five boreholes and five tap outlets were swabbed with a sterile swab stick. Coliforms were estimated from the water samples using the Most Probable Number (MPN) technique. Gram negative bacteria were isolated and identified from the swabbing using standard bacteriological and biochemical tests. The antibiotic resistance patterns of the isolates were also determined, and the genes responsible for the multiple antibiotic resistance were identified using the DNA extraction and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) methods. Bacterial counts of the samples ranged from 6.0×105cfu/mL to 1.4×106cfu/mL. MPN values of the tap water samples ranged from 4 to 1100+cfu/100mL, which exceeded the WHO standards of water quality. A total of 31 bacteria were isolated, of which 8 (25.8%) were Pseudomonas sp, 7 (22.6%) were Proteus sp, 4 (12.9%) were Klebsiella sp, 4 (12.9%) were Escherichia coli, 3 (9.7%) were Enterobacter sp, 3 (9.7%) were Citrobacter sp and 2 (6.5%) were Salmonella sp. All the bacteria showed multiple drug resistance to different antibiotics used, especially the cephalosporins. The gene found to be responsible for the cephalosporin resistance was the TEM - 445. Tap swabbing and water samples were found to contain a high value of coliforms (4 – 1100cfu/100mL), showing heavy faecal pollution, many of which could be pathogenic microorganisms that renders the water unfit for human consumption. The presence of these multidrug resistant microorganisms in the tap outlets could pose a serious threat to public health.

Assessment of the Microorganisms Isolated from Artificial Eyelash Users

Eyelashes are shed, like other types of hair, from the follicle. Each eyelash has its own growth cycle (anaphase) that lasts six to eight weeks so that most eyelashes are present to maintain their collective protective mechanisms. This project work is to identify the microorganisms isolated from eye lashes users of students in Ekpoma. Eyelashes of the students were swabbed with a sterile swab stick that was soaked with normal saline. The swab stick was immediately replaced in its casing and labeled appropriately. Each specimen was refrigerated at 4°C as soon as it was collected. The bacteria isolates are Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella spp while the fungi isolates were Rhizopus spp and Candida albicans. The percentage prevalence of organisms isolated from the study. Staphylococcus aureus 25 (36.2%), Klebsiella spp 14 (20.3%), Rhizopus spp 11 (15.98%) and Candida albicans 19 (27.8%). The Staph aureus in the study was sensitive to Erythromycin, Gentamycin, Ciprofloxacin and Norfloxacin while the other antibiotics were resistant. Eyelash fixing can seriously predispose patronizing females to eye injury. The eye is a very important but delicate organ of the body; therefore it needs to be well protected to maintain one’s sight. Eyelash fixing is inimical to the eyelid and could be detrimental to vision and therefore the obsession on eyelash extension should be curbed.

ANTIBIOTIC SENSITIVITY AND MULTIDRUG RESISTANCE TO MICROBIAL ISOLATES FROM FOMITES OF HEALTHCARE WORKERS AT HOLLY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL, OCHADAMU, NIGERIA

Aim and objective: Microbial contamination of some fomites were screened for, in which over 100 samples were collected from table, mobile phone and biro pen from Holley Memorial Hospital Ochadamu, Kogi State, Nigeria. Methods: Using standard techniques, the samples were collected using a sterile swab stick dipped in normal saline and aseptically swabbing the surface of the fomites. The organisms; Staphylococcus aureus(40%), Escherichia coli (15%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (5%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (5%), Bacillus cereus (10%), Proteus mirabilis (5%), and Streptococcus pneumoniae(20%) were isolated and identified using both morphological and biochemical techniques. The antibiotic sensitivity test was carried out using disc diffusion method. Results: this finding revealed that all the organisms were sensitive to tarivid but were resistant to septrin with varied zones of inhibition. However, the highest inhibition zone was recorded for perfloxacin (30.00 mm) on Klebsiella pneumoniae. All the isolates showed varying multidrug resistant pattern to the antibiotics used. Conclusion: The understudied fomites are cheap source of nosocomial infections and also showed varying degree of multidrug resistant pattern. Peer Review History: Received: 11 February 2023; Revised: 12 March; Accepted: 27 April 2023, Available online: 15 May 2023 Academic Editor: Dr. Asia Selman Abdullah, Pharmacy institute, University of Basrah, Iraq, asia_abdullah65@yahoo.com Received file: Reviewer's Comments: Average Peer review marks at initial stage: 5.0/10 Average Peer review marks at publication stage: 7.0/10 Reviewers: Prof. Hassan A.H. Al-Shamahy, Sana'a University, Yemen, shmahe@yemen.net.ye Dr. Ogbonna B. Onyebuchi, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria, summitpharm@yahoo.com

Conjunctival Fungal Flora in a Tertiary Eye Hospital in Nigeria.

The aim of this study is to determine the hospital incidence and pattern of conjunctival fungal flora in adult patients at the Guinness Eye Center Onitsha, Nigeria. New adult patients, without anterior segment disease, were randomly recruited. Using a sterile swab stick, specimen was taken from the inferior conjunctival fornix of each participant's right eye and inoculated into Sabouraud dextrose agar slant in a test tube and incubated at 27°C. The specimens were examined for fungal growth every 48 h for 4 weeks. Specimens with fungal growth were further examined under a high power microscope for fungal identification and characterization. A total of 225 patients (105 males, 120 females) were examined. The age range was 18-75 years; mean age was 41 ± 17.1 years; 62 (27.6%) were culture-positive: 25 (40.3%) were males and 37 (59.7%) were females (P >0.05). Both moulds and yeasts were isolated with moulds constituting 44 (74.2%). Aspergillus [26 (41.9%)] and Candida [16 (25.8%)] were the commonest organisms. Participants >60 years had the greatest burden. Pensioners (61.5%), traders (44.0%), farmers (30.1%), and artisans (27.3%) were occupational groups with significantly higher proportions of culture-positive specimens (P < 0.05). Over a quarter of new adult patients without anterior segment disease harbour fungi, some of which are pathogenic, in their conjunctival fungal organisms. While Aspergillus and Candida were the commonest isolates, older participants, pensioners, traders, farmers, and artisans had significantly higher proportion of culture-positive specimens. These findings should be considered when formulating pre-operative guidelines for ocular surgery in our environment.

Antibiogram of bacterial isolates obtained from infants and children at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH).

The gradual increase in antimicrobial resistance in children is a major challenge in the field of hospital epidemiology and medical microbiology. This study was conducted to investigate the susceptibility pattern of commonly used antimicrobial agents against bacterial isolates in children attending UCTH. Fifty clinical specimens; blood, urine, eye, ear and wound swap were collected from infants and children 1-day old to 9 years. About 2mL of the blood was dispensed into Brain Heart infusion broth (10ml) contained in a Bijou bottle and incubated for 2 days at 37°C. Midstream urine samples were collected into sterile universal containers and cultured on blood and CLED agar using the Leigh and Williams paper strip method, while sterile swab-stick was used to collect ear and eye specimen (discharge). The ear specimens were cultured on CLED and blood agar while the eye swap on CLED and chocolate agar. Isolates susceptibility was tested on gentamicin, erythromycin, Zithromax, ampicillin, amoxicillin and penicillin using disc diffusion method by Kirby-Bauer. Of the 50 subjects examined, a total of 39 bacterial isolates were obtained from the 36(72%) culture positive samples. S. aureus was the most isolated 22(56.4%), followed by P. aeruginosa 7(17.9%), Streptococci, Coliform, and Proteus were 3(7.7%), 6(15.4%) and 1(2.6%) respectively. Female children had more bacterial isolates 19(73.1%) compared to male 17(70.1%). The isolates were more sensitive to gentamicin 25(64%), followed by zithromax 23(59%), erythromycin 16(41%) and ampicillin 12(31%). The isolates were less sensitive to Penicillin 2(5) and Amoxicillin 10(26), multi resistance was seen in 14(35.9%) of the isolates. Resistance to antibiotics is on the rise and babies are particularly at increased risk because of lower immunity. The study recommends the need for the development of alternative therapy.

Assessment of Perinatal Clinical Characteristics, Perinatal Risk Factors, and Microbial Profile in Congenital Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction in a Tertiary Care Center: A Descriptive Study.

PurposeTo assess the perinatal risk factors, clinical characteristics, and microbial profile in congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO).MethodsA prospective observational study was conducted in pediatric patients of age <5 years. After a thorough clinical evaluation, the diagnosis of the CNLDO was confirmed by a Jones dye test or fluorescein dye disappearance test. A microbiological culture of lacrimal sac resurge was done with a sterile swab stick without touching the lid margins. Antibiotic susceptibility was then performed for the standard antibiotics.ResultsSeventy-one eyes of 52 children were included in the study. The mean age was 3.4 months. Our research found an equal number of cases born via spontaneous vaginal delivery and Caesarean section. Nine children (17.3%) had associated systemic and ocular anomalies. The number of cultures that were positive for any growth was 19 (27%). The most common isolate was Streptococcus pneumoniae which constituted eight cases (42%), followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (15.8%), and Escherichia coli (10.5%). Other organisms that grew were Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis and nonfermenting gram-negative bacilli. Gram-positive organisms were susceptible to ciprofloxacin, amoxiclav, and oxacillin, and most of them were resistant to erythromycin. In comparison, gram-negative organisms showed 62.5% resistance and 37.5% susceptibility to ciprofloxacin.ConclusionsCNLDO was more commonly unilateral, in male, preterm, and normal birth weight infants. Bilateral CNLDO was more commonly associated with coexisting ocular or systemic anomalies. Prematurity, delivery by Caesarean section, and presence of congenital anomalies were associated with a prolonged course. S. pneumoniae was the predominant isolate in our patient population.

Bacterial Contamination Associated with Mobile Phones

Bacterial cells adhere to mobile phone surfaces and could form organized colonies. Once the bacteria move to the mobile phone they can live well because these surfaces are hard to clean. This research, included isolation of pathogenic bacteria from mobile phones of Knowledge University students. A total of 100 mobile phones of Knowledge university staff and students were selected for this study. The single sterile swab stick was moistened with sterile normal saline solution and moved over the surfaces of mobile phones. The swab sticks were immediately transported to the laboratory. All swabs were cultured in (Nutrient agar), Then incubated for 24 hours. The obtained bacterial colonies were subjected to Gram stain, and colonial characteristics for their identification. Biochemical Examination for selected colonies has been done. From a total 100 mobile phone swabs. A total of 138 bacterial isolates were recognized as: 47 bacterial colonies of Staphylococcus aureus, 33 bacterial colonies of Staphylococcus epidermidis, 23 bacterial colonies of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 19 bacterial colonies of Escherichia coli, 7 bacterial colonies of Streptococcus spp., 6 bacterial colonies of Bacillus subtilis, 2 bacterial colonies of Neisseria and 1 bacterial colonies of Enterobacter aerogene. The study revealed that bacteria can survive on mobile phones of students and the contaminated mobile phones are able to transport microbes that may be able to produce disease. There is a need for preventive care to reduce the impact of contaminated mobile phones on the spread of microbes and control measures should be applicable for this reason.

Phylogenetic Identification and Some Physiological Properties of Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from the Oral Cavities of Some Selected Students from University of Ibadan, Nigeria

Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) have been reported to be a component of the human and animal microbiome, functioning as probiotics. Their capacity to stick to the epithelial or mucosal surface is mostly dependent on receptor specific binding, charge, and hydrophobicity interaction. Much work have been done on the hydrophobicity and some physiological properties of LAB from different sources but there is a dearth of knowledge on those of the oral cavity, hence this study.&#x0D; Oral samples were collected from respondents from different areas of the University Of Ibadan with sterile swab stick and were brought to the microbiology laboratory of the University of Ibadan for analysis. The isolates were subjected to morphological, biochemical, molecular and physiological tests using standard procedures.&#x0D; In this study, nine colonies of LAB were isolated and characterized from oral samples of respondents from the University of Ibadan. They were identified as, Pedicoccus acidilactici, Leuconostoc lactis, Leuconostoc mesenteroides, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus plantarium, and Lactobacillus casei. All the isolates inhibited the growth of the four pathogens used, survived at 4% concentration of NaCl, MgSO4, KNO3, NaNO3, MnSO4 and 3% bile salts used. They exhibited low surface hydrophobicity, survived in the acidic and temperatures of the media used.

Microbial Contamination of Applied Instrument in Female Hair-Dressers Salon in Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria

Hairdresser’s salons are public places that can contribute to the spread of viral, fungi and bacterial pathogens. However, little is known about the contamination of hairdressing tools by bacterial and fungal pathogens. Hence, this study was conducted to determine bacterial and fungal contaminants of tools used in hairdressing salons within Wukari metropolis, Taraba State. Eighty (80) different samples were collected from combs, brushes, rollers, and hairdryers used in hairdressing salons using sterile swab stick moistened with normal saline. Samples were cultured aerobically on nutrient agar, MacConkey agar, and sheep blood agar for bacterial isolation and potato dextrose agar for fungal isolation. Bacterial isolates were identified using conventional biochemical tests while fungal isolates were identified on the basis of their cell wall structure using the lactophenol cotton blue stain. Antibiotic sensitivity pattern of bacterial isolates was tested using the modified Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Sixty-seven (83.75%) of the collected sample were positive for bacterial and/or fungal contamination, yielding twenty-two (22) and eighteen (18) isolates each of bacteria and fungi. The bacterial isolates were Staphylococcus aureus (81.82%), Staphylococcus epidermidis (13.64%), and Escherichia coli (4.64%) while the fungal isolates were Aspergillus fumigatus (31.25%), Aspergillus flavus (50%), Aspergillus niger (6.25%), Madurella grisea (6.25%), and Rhizopus stolonifera (6.25%). Bacterial isolates were generally sensitive to ciprofloxacin, gentamicin, rifampicin, ofloxacin, and streptomycin. The highest resistances were against cefuroxime, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, ampicillin, and augmentin. The presence of these microorganisms on hairdressing tools is an indication of poor hygienic practices among hairstylists in Wukari and these tools can serve as vehicles for the transmission of bacterial pathogens. Hence, appropriate measures should be taken to reduce the microbial load from hairdressing salons instruments.

Investigating the Bioburden of “Neglected” Hospital Low Contact Surfaces

Microbes inhabit every surface, reproduce, and if undisturbed, could form biofilm. Hospital contact surfaces have been reported to play a major role in the spread of healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs). Most studies on these surfaces as a route for the spread of nosocomial infections have focused on the high-contact surfaces. There is a paucity of information on the bioburden of “neglected” low-contact surfaces such as bedside bible, ward television, and ward clock, etc. This study was carried out to investigate the bioburden of “neglected” low-contact hospital surfaces and compare it with that of the high-contact surfaces. Using a sterile swab stick moistened in normal saline, we collected 400 samples from contact surfaces of 20 randomly selected hospitals in Owerri, southeast in Nigeria, and by standard microbiological methods and with reference to standard identification manuals, microbial species were isolated and characterized. The results show that the mean of the bioburden in cfu/square swabbed surface of these “neglected” low-contact surfaces is significantly higher (p = 0.005) than that of the high-contact surfaces which may be a result of target hygienic cleaning, with attention on the high-contact surfaces and the low-contact surfaces are often “neglected”. This result gives an insight into the continued prevalence of hospital-acquired infections as these “neglected” low-contact surfaces continue to serve as a reservoir for pathogenic microbes and a source of continued microbial contamination of hospital surfaces. It therefore calls for a revamp of existing hospital cleaning protocols and redesigning of cleaning regimes.

Antibiotic Susceptibility Profile of Salmonella spp and Shigella spp Isolated from Commercial Frozen Chicken Sold in three Markets within Awka Metropolis

Background: Contamination of chicken meat by bacteria contributes to the increasing incidence of food –borne infections in humans. This study was aimed at providing data on the antibiotic susceptibility profile of Salmonella and Shigella species from frozen chicken sold within the Awka metropolis. Methodology: A total of 100 frozen chicken samples were obtained from different markets within the Awka metropolis. Smear samples were gotten from each chicken sample using sterile swab stick. Salmonella and Shigella samples were isolated after culturing the samples with Salmonella –Shigella agar and pure isolates identified morphologically, by Gram and biochemical characteristics. Antibiotic susceptibility test was performed using the disc diffusion method as recommended by CSLI. Isolates that showed resistance to any of the third-generation cephalosporin used were further subjected to the Double Disk Synergy Tests (DDST). Results: Of the 100 samples, 25 Shigella spp and 51 isolates of Salmonella were isolated. All Salmonella and Shigella isolates were resistant to the β-latam antibiotics. A 100% of the shigella isolates were resistant to all generation cephalospoin used. The bacterial spps were however, sensitive to nitrofurantoin and ciprofloxacin. Conclusion: This study has shown that frozen chicken serves as sources/ reservoir for bacterial infections. The isolates were resistant to the cephalosporins but sensitive to ciprofloxacin and nitrofurantoin.

Occupational and Environmental Health Concerns on Unsafe Acts and Conditions in Poultry Production Sites in Ido-Osi, Ekiti State, Nigeria

Aim: Many food animal production facilities are sited close to human residence. This research work seeks to establish the occupational and environmental burdens of unsafe acts and conditions in backyard poultry production sites in the area of study in order to validate the compliance level of poultry farmers to common safety regulations.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: Microbiology Department, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, from February 2017 to December 2019.&#x0D; Methodology: A well-structured questionnaire was administered to farm managers and residents within the area of study. Data on poultry management attitudes and history of water use were collected. The coordinates of the poultry sites, natural water bodies, source area and their relative distances were determined using the Geographical System Information Software, Mapit GIS. Fecal droppings from poultry birds were randomly sampled with a sterile swab stick and transferred into a factory-packed polythene bag. The suspension of the fecal droppings was streaked on Eosin Methylene Blue agar plates and incubated at 37°C for 18-24 hours. Waste-water, soil from disposal sites, and poultry feed samples were also collected in sterile universal bottles, serially diluted and cultured. E. coli isolates were characterized using relevant biochemical tests. The modified paper disc-diffusion method was used to determine the isolates’ sensitivity to nine tested antibiotics. The results were interpreted based on the procedures of the clinical and laboratory standard institutes.&#x0D; Results: Majority of the poultry farms under survey, 83% adopted the intensive ranging system of farming while few adopted the free range system. Layers were the most reared, 50%. There was no documented health, safety and regulatory protocols used on all the farms leading to variations in poultry management practices. Accumulated poultry droppings were periodically disposed between 3-4 days into open fields, flowing water bodies and pits. Among the three adopted waste disposal options, disposal into open field was rampant, 67%. Also, some of the poultry farmers, 42% applied the collected poultry droppings as farm yard manure. Family members constitute the major labor force, 92% on the farm. There were contacts between few of the farmers and their clients during routine farm activities. Majority of the farmers, 83.3% were not kitted with commonly-used personal protective equipment while coverall was only used by few. The five natural water bodies found within the area of study were majorly used for agricultural, domestic, and, recreational purposes. There was history of diarrhea in respondents, 12% with exposure to the water bodies. Socio-demographic data show that young, married-males with tertiary education comprise the major farming population. The relative distance of poultry farms to residential site is ≤ 6 meters while the proximity of poultry farms to natural water sources is between 160 meters to 4,596 meters. Antibiotic sensitivity test shows that multiple antibiotic-resistant bacteria were present in poultry droppings, waste water and soil from poultry waste disposal sites. Bacterial resistance to the fluoroquinolones, sulphonamide, tetracycline, aminoglycoside and penicillin was high.&#x0D; Conclusion: The findings on unsafe act audit of the poultry production sites assert that safety of public health is dependent on the quality of water and soil found in human environment. Unsafe acts and conditions with the inherent occupational hazards in poultry production sites are attributed to non-functional health, safety and environment management system. Antibiotic resistant bacteria in poultry droppings constitute biological hazard to humans. Exposure to these biological hazards predisposes the public to infections. Human and environmental health can be improved by reviewing the national guidelines and standards for environmental pollution control.

Nasopharyngeal Carriage of Staphylococcus aureus among Horses and Horse Handlers in Kano Metropolis, Nigeria

Staphylococcal species are important opportunistic bacterial pathogens that can asymptomatically colonize both human and animals bodies. The presence of nasopharyngeal carriage Staphylococci has been an increased risk factor of acquiring an infection with this pathogen. The present study aimed at determining the nasopharyngeal carriage of Staphylococcal aureus in horses and horse handlers in Kano metropolis, Nigeria. One hundred and sixty (160) non-duplicated nasopharyngeal samples were collected using sterile swab stick from each horse and 100 from consented horse handlers. All the samples were analyzed using a standard bacteriological procedure. Antibiotics susceptibility testing to eight (8) most commonly used antibiotics was carried out using a modified Kirby Bauer method. One hundred and forty-two (88.8%) staphylococcal isolates were recovered from horses and 84 (84.0%) from horse handlers. Among all the isolated staphylococci high sensitivity was observed in response to Gentamycin and Ciprofloxacin antibiotics, while Tetracycline was found to have the least activity. The report of this study showed a high prevalence of Staphylococci among horses and horse handlers. Moreover, it confirmed the tendency of Staphylococcal isolates cross-transmission between horses and handlers in the study site. This study indicated the importance of increase in handler's awareness of possible risk factors of staphylococcal colonization that can lead to invasive infection.

Occurrence of vaginal infection (volvovaginities) among female students in Ogun State College of Health Technology, Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State, Nigeria

Volvovaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that can result in discharge, itching and pain. This study determined the occurrence of vaginal infection (volvovaginitis) among female students in Ogun State College of Health Technology, Ilese-ijebu. A validated questionnaire was used to obtain information on socio-demographic characteristics of fifty selected students and sterile swab stick was used to collect their vaginal swabs. MacConkey and Chocolate agar were used to culture the microorganisms and data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, correlation, and Chi-Square. The result showed that majority of the students were in the age range of 21-25yrs and the hygienic practices of the students were poor because majority do not have access to clean water, about 45% spread their underwear in untidy environment after washing, 27% of them used any material (clothe, tissue paper, cotton wool) during their menstrual period if they could not afford sanitary pad at that moment and 15% confessed that they can wear their pants for two or three days. The isolated microorganisms showed the growth of Candida spp, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella and Escherichia coli in 40%, 22% and 2% of the female students respectively. Chi-square showed a significant association between age and Candida spp (p=0.012), and Escherichia coli (p=0.004) while correlation shows a significant relationship between hygienic practices and identified microorganisms because unclean water was related to Klebsiella (p= 0.311) while dirty underwear have a significant relationship with S. aureus (p= 0.121). Conclusively, this study shows the prevalence of vaginal infections amongst female students in the college and could provide important epidemiological data on vaginal infection for future population-based studies.

Antibiotic Treatment and Antibiogram Profiles of E.coli Isolated from Selected Poultry Farms in Ido-Ekiti

Aims: Antibiotic therapy in poultry is alleged to spread multiple antibiotic resistant bacteria. This study seeks to correlate antibiotic treatment in poultry with the occurrence of multiple bacterial resistances to critically important antibiotics and also determine the potential sources of acquisition of these bacteria.&#x0D; Study Design: Experimental design.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti between February 2017 and December 2019.&#x0D; Methodology: Data on antibiotic treatment, poultry management practices and use of natural water bodies in the area of study were collected from farm managers and residents using a questionnaire. The locations of the source area and their relative distances were determined using the Geographical System Information Software, Mapit. Fresh fecal droppings from poultry birds were randomly sampled with a sterile swab stick and transferred into a freshly-procured, sealed, factory-packed polythene bag. Farm feed, water, and soil from disposal sites were also collected in sterile universal containers. The suspension of the fecal droppings was streaked on Eosin Methylene Blue agar plates with sterile wire loop and incubated at 37 °C for 18-24 hours. Soil and water samples from the waste disposal sites were serially diluted and streaked as previously. The isolates were characterized using relevant biochemical tests. Modified Kirby Bauer method was used to determine the isolates’ susceptibility to nine tested antibiotics, and the results were interpreted based on CLSI guidelines.&#x0D; Results: Most of the examined birds, (92%) were exposed to antibiotics, of which 64% of the antibiotics were administered for therapeutic purposes, prophylaxis (27%) and enhancement of egg production in layers (9%). All the antibiotics were administered by mixing them in a specified quantity of water. The majority (46%) of the birds were first exposed to antibiotics at the age of 2 weeks. Routine charts were used by 25% of the farmers for the administration of antibiotics. Data from farm records show that eleven antibiotics were selectively used on the farms. Sulfonamide and diaveridine, an anti-coccidiostat, were administered in most of the farms (50%), while tylosine, metronidazole and chloramphenicol recorded the least (8.3%). Carbapenem, penicillin, and cephalosporin were not administered. From the data obtained on antibiotics-presence in two retail markets, tetracycline, neomycin, gentamycin and erythromycin were available in both retail markets, cephalosporins, meropenem, and metronidazole were not sold for poultry consumption. Both the percentage occurrences of E. coli from fresh poultry droppings (44.1%) and waste disposal sites (33.3%) were relatively low. Higher antibiotic percentage resistance to ciprofloxacin (87%), ofloxacin (83%), sulfonamide, and tetracycline (78%) were found in the isolates. Multiple antibiotic-resistant profiles occurred in patterns and different patterns were replicated across various farms. Also, 46 multiple antibiotic-resistant patterns were recorded, and two of these patterns (AMC, CIP, OFX, CN, SXT, TET and CRO, CAZ, AMC, CIP, OFX, CN, MEM, SXT) were spread across 50% of the farms. There was history of diarrhea in some respondents (12%), linked to human exposure to contaminated natural water bodies. From correlation studies, both data on antibiotic treatment and that from market survey were directly related to the antibiotic-resistant profiles of isolates. The Spearman correlation coefficient are (rs (3) = 0.866, p = .333) and (rs (3) = 0 .667, p = .500) respectively.&#x0D; Conclusion: The development and spread of multiple antibiotic-resistant bacteria of poultry origin are primarily attributed to poor antibiotic formulation policy, crude antibiotic treatment on poultry farms, and indiscriminate supply of antibiotics to untrained poultry personnel. The effectiveness of the super drugs used for the treatment of superbugs in poultry birds may be undermined if policies on the antibiotic formulation, dispensing, and therapy are not reviewed.

Isolation and Identification of Pathogen Bacteria Associated with Farm Animals

Farm animals’ meat contributes significantly to the daily protein intake of many individuals but can also be a source of foodborne illnesses especially under the conditions in which animals are handled, slaughtered, transported and sold. The emergence and re-emergence of diseases due to pathogenic bacteria are the key issue of the new pattern of food trades. A total of twenty-one samples (VIS, FSA, STS, MSA, URS, UDS, and PES) were collected from farm animals from Rugga settlement of Birnin Kebbi. Some of the samples were collected using sterile swab stick while urine and stool samples were collected in sterile containers and were taken immediately to Microbiology Laboratory Waziri Umaru federal Polytechnic. The samples were bacteriologically analyzed and the isolates were identified using biochemical tests such as (indole, coagulase, catalase, urease, gluctose, lactose, maltose, motility, Voges Proskauer and methyl red). Fourteen bacterial species were isolated and identified as pathogens from the sheep samples. They are Gram positive bacteria such as Streptococcus agalactiae and Staphylococcus aureus as well as Gram negative bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Shigella sp and Salmonella sp. The isolates were identified based on their reaction to biochemical tests. The findings revealed that sheep are potential vehicles for transmitting pathogenic bacteria and the presence of these microorganisms may lead to poisoning and can as well claim the live of the sheep from which they were isolated.

Bacteriological Profile of Diabetic Foot Infection and Its Effect on Limb Salvation

Background: Foot ulceration has been reported as the leading cause of hospital admission and amputation in individuals with diabetes. Diabetes-related foot ulcers require multidisciplinary management and care, including debridement, offloading, dressings, management of infection, modified footwear and management of extrinsic factors.&#x0D; Objective: To identify the bacterial pathogens responsible for diabetic foot infections and its effect on limb salvation.&#x0D; Methods: This prospective observational and cross sectional study was conducted among 100 diabetic foot ulceration patients in Mainamati Medical College Hospital, Cumilla between the period of January, 2017 to December, 2018. The patients with diabetic foot ulcer Wagner Grade (2-5) irrespective of age and sex were included in the study. They were thoroughly examined and swab from ulcer base was collected by sterile swab stick and container supplied by the microbiology department. A pre-structured, peer reviewed, interview and observation based data collection sheet was prepared that was used as a research tool. Data regarding clinical, hematological and bacteriological profile were recorded by data collection sheet. Data were entered, managed and analyzed.&#x0D; Results: Diabetic foot was very common in the elderly age group (51-60yrs) 38% and male predominant (78%). Staphylococcus aureus (35%) is the commonest pathogens affecting as the gram positive cocci whereas pseudomonas (23%) is the commonest among the gram negative bacilli. Chloramphenicol, Amikacin, Vancomycin were the most sensitive drugs against gram positive cocci whereas, Cefuroxin, Co-trimoxazole and Gentamycin found the most sensitive drugs against gram negative bacilli. Incision, drainage and dressing (31%) found the commonest treatment modality. The other treatment modalities were debridement, dressing and reconstruction conservative dressing, above and below knee amputation, toe disarticulation etc.&#x0D; Conclusion: Diabetic foot is usually affected by Staphylococcus aureus and streptococcus among the gram positive cocci and pseudomonas whereas Chlamydia and E. coli among the gram negative bacilli. For the limb salvage incision &amp; drainage as well as debridement, excision and reconstruction are the mostly chosen procedure.&#x0D; Journal of Surgical Sciences (2020) Vol. 24 (1) : 21-25

Conjunctival bacterial flora and their antibiotic sensitivity among patients scheduled for cataract surgery in a tertiary hospital in south-east Nigeria.

To determine the pre-operative conjunctival bacteria flora and their antibiotic susceptibility among patients scheduled for cataract surgery. A descriptive, cross-sectional, hospital-based study design was adopted. It involved 104 consecutive, consented patients scheduled for cataract surgery at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu, from June to September 2017. The participants' socio-demographic characteristics, medical, and social history were obtained through interviewer-administered questionnaire. Conjunctival swab was obtained from the inferior fornix of the eye scheduled for cataract surgery using sterile swab stick and transported to medical laboratory for analysis. Susceptibility tests were carried out on the representatives of different groups of available antibiotics. Data was analyzed using the SPSS version 23. The participants were mainly females (64.4%), married, and farmers, with at least primary school education and a mean age of 64 ± 2SD years. The conjunctival swab bacteria isolation rate was 36.5%. Gram-positive bacteria accounted for 73.7% of the total isolates. Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (34.2%) was the most frequently isolated bacteria. Gentamicin, ofloxacin, and polymycin B (76%) were the most efficacious antibiotics followed by moxifloxacin and tobramycin (68%) on all the isolates. Ofloxacin (82%) was the most sensitive to Gram positive while gentamicin (90%) was for Gram-negative bacteria. In Enugu, the most common pre-operative conjunctival bacteria isolated were Coagulase-negative Staphylococcus with varied antibiotic sensitivity. Routine prophylaxis with gentamicin and ofloxacin is therefore advised to forestall the dreaded post-operative endophthalmitis.