Mobile Phones as Bacterial Transmission Vectors in Malaysian Universities

| Posted in: Science Health Sciences

Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Mobile Phones: A Possible Vehicle of Bacterial Transmission in a Higher Learning Institution in Malaysia
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:

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Author:

Nur ‘Ain Hikmah, Tengku Shahrul Anuar


The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:

(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)

Full text available for: Mobile Phones: A Possible Vehicle of Bacterial Transmission in a Higher Learning Institution in Malaysia

Year: 2020 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2020.27.2.15

Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Mobile phones (MPs) have become essential tools in both social and professional spheres, particularly among students and healthcare professionals. This increasing reliance on MPs raises concerns regarding their role as carriers of infectious pathogens. The study outlined here aimed to assess the prevalence and types of bacterial contamination on MPs used by health sciences students and laboratory staff at Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia, as well as to examine the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) isolates.

Bacterial Contamination and Findings

The research findings indicated that all examined MPs were contaminated with bacteria, with a significant amount of mixed infections involving various bacterial species. Predominant organisms identified included Bacillus species, coagulase-negative staphylococci, and S. aureus. The study found that a small percentage (5.9%) of S. aureus isolates displayed oxacillin resistance, suggesting a level of antimicrobial resistance that is concerning in healthcare settings. Notably, a comparison of the bacterial isolates between genders revealed a significant difference concerning Proteus vulgaris, while notable variations in S. aureus contamination were identified among students and laboratory staff. These findings underscore the role of MPs as vectors for bacterial transfer and potential infection.

Conclusion

This study highlights the serious concern regarding microbial contamination of mobile phones among university health sciences students and laboratory employees. The presence of various bacterial pathogens emphasizes the necessity for rigorous hygiene practices, such as regular sanitization of mobile devices and promoting hand hygiene to mitigate the risk of infection transmission. Recommendations include limiting MP usage in laboratory settings to essential functions only and employing alcohol-based disinfectants to reduce contamination. Overall, awareness regarding the hygiene of personal devices is crucial in maintaining health safety within academic and clinical environments.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What was the aim of the study on mobile phones?

The study aimed to identify the prevalence of bacterial contamination and determine the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Staphylococcus aureus from mobile phones used by health sciences students and laboratory staff.

What were the main bacterial contaminants found on mobile phones?

The primary bacterial isolates included Bacillus spp., coagulase-negative staphylococci, and Staphylococcus aureus. Almost all sampled mobile phones were found to be contaminated with various bacteria.

What conclusions were drawn regarding mobile phone hygiene?

The study concluded that mobile phones can transmit both pathogenic and non-pathogenic organisms, emphasizing the need for guidelines on hand hygiene and regular disinfection of mobile phones.

What antibiotic resistance was observed in Staphylococcus aureus?

Among the tested Staphylococcus aureus isolates, 5.9% displayed resistance to oxacillin, indicating a potential concern regarding antimicrobial resistance in the context of mobile phone contamination.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Mobile Phones as Bacterial Transmission Vectors in Malaysian Universities”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Table:
In scientific publications, tables are essential for presenting data in a structured format that enhances clarity and comparison. They allow readers to quickly grasp complex information regarding sample characteristics, results, or methodologies, making it easier to interpret data trends and highlight significant findings relevant to the study's conclusions.

2) Study (Studying):
A study is a systematic investigation aimed at discovering, interpreting, or revising facts within a particular field. It provides organized methods to gain insights, analyze data, and address specific questions or hypotheses. Effective studies contribute valuable knowledge to scientific literature and guide future research directions and applications.

3) Aureus:
Staphylococcus aureus is a significant bacterium associated with various infections and is notably known for its role in healthcare settings. Understanding its prevalence, especially on mobile phones, is critical as it implies the potential for cross-contamination, highlighting the need for sanitation practices to mitigate healthcare-associated infections.

4) Science (Scientific):
Science is the pursuit of knowledge through structured methodologies, observations, and experiments. It encompasses various disciplines, including microbiology in this context, focusing on understanding living organisms and their interactions. Scientific research helps develop effective strategies for infection control, disease prevention, and enhancing public health standards.

5) Surface:
Surfaces, particularly of mobile phones, are critical points for microbial colonization due to frequent handling. The presence of bacteria on surfaces can pose health risks, showcasing the importance of hygiene practices. Conducting studies to assess surface contamination aids in understanding transmission pathways and necessary interventions for public health.

6) Mara:
Universiti Teknologi MARA, located in Malaysia, serves as a leading institution for health and medical sciences education. Studies conducted here, such as assessing bacterial contamination of mobile phones, contribute to the broader understanding of hygiene and infection control practices, benefiting both academic and healthcare communities in Malaysia.

7) Hand:
Hands are primary vehicles for the transfer of pathogens, especially in settings like hospitals where health professionals frequently use their mobile phones. Emphasizing hand hygiene in conjunction with mobile phone sanitation becomes essential in preventing the transmission of infectious agents, thereby reducing healthcare-associated infections.

8) Transmission:
Transmission refers to the spread of infectious agents from one host to another or through surfaces. Studying transmission pathways involving mobile phones can reveal critical insights into how infections propagate and underscore the necessity for systematic cleaning and hygiene practices to limit outbreaks in healthcare environments.

9) Male:
Gender differences in bacterial colonization on mobile phones can provide valuable insights regarding usage patterns and hygiene behaviors. Understanding the prevalence of bacterial pathogens in male users is essential, as various factors influence contamination levels, potentially guiding targeted interventions to improve hygiene practices.

10) Education:
Education is central to promoting awareness about hygiene practices and the implications of microbial contamination on health. In an academic health sciences context, educating students about proper mobile phone sanitation can foster responsible usage habits and enhance overall infection control strategies, thereby promoting safer healthcare environments.

11) Learning:
Learning, particularly within health sciences, encompasses not only acquiring knowledge but also understanding practical applications of that knowledge, such as maintaining hygiene. Studies on mobile phone contamination influence learning outcomes by highlighting the importance of integrating hygiene education into health training programs for future professionals.

12) Species:
Species identification is crucial for understanding microbial diversity in studies focusing on bacterial contamination. Identifying specific bacterial species, such as Staphylococcus aureus, offers insights into infection risks and necessitates tailored sanitation strategies, emphasizing the importance of microbial taxonomy in public health research.

13) Rules:
Rules refer to established guidelines and protocols in scientific research, including methodologies for data collection and analysis. Adhering to these rules ensures the validity and reliability of findings. In this context, strict adherence to protocols regarding hygiene practices can significantly impact study outcomes.

14) Cina:
The reference to 'Sina' may link to a specific institution or research context, showcasing the need to evaluate microbial contamination in various settings. Establishing germ patterns in different environments may inform broader health initiatives, underscoring the role of institutions in advancing public health understanding.

15) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibiotics are critical for treating bacterial infections, but the emergence of resistant bacteria, especially in healthcare settings, poses a significant challenge. Understanding the antibiotic resistance patterns of bacteria found on mobile phones aids in developing effective treatment protocols and emphasizes the need for prudent antibiotic use.

16) Adhikarin (Adhikari):
Adhikari likely refers to an author associated with research on microbial contamination in mobile phones. Citing peer-reviewed studies like those by Adhikari enrich understanding within the scientific community, facilitating knowledge exchange and informing future research endeavors in infection control and hygiene practice.

17) Egypt:
Egypt serves as a contextual backdrop for studies investigating microbial contamination of mobile phones in healthcare settings. Understanding contamination in diverse environments, like those found in Egypt, contributes to the global effort in addressing hygiene issues, enhancing public health strategies tailored to specific cultural or regional practices.

18) Amala:
Amala may refer to a researcher or study that highlights the significance of bacterial contamination related to mobile device use. Research contributions from authors like Amala help advance the discourse on hygiene practices and encourage healthcare institutions to implement preventive strategies against microbial transmission.

19) Food:
Food is often associated with the transmission of pathogens. Contaminated hands or surfaces, including mobile phones, can transfer bacteria to food, leading to foodborne illnesses. Understanding the intersection between mobile phone use, hygiene, and food safety is vital in developing public health interventions.

20) Performance:
Performance standards in microbiological testing, such as those specified by clinical laboratories, guide the methods used to assess bacterial contamination. Establishing performance criteria ensures that tests yield accurate and reliable results, ultimately influencing the understanding of microbial risks associated with mobile devices.

21) Discussion:
Discussion sections in scientific research allow for the interpretation of findings, comparisons with existing literature, and implications for future research or practice. Engaging in discussions about microbial contamination highlights the importance of continuous evaluation and improvement of hygiene practices in various settings.

22) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the science of healing and preventing disease. In the context of healthcare, understanding bacterial contamination from mobile phones contributes to improving medical practices, guides educational initiatives, and reinforces the importance of hygiene in disease prevention within clinical settings.

23) Disease:
Diseases often arise from microbial infections, which can be transmitted via contaminated surfaces, including mobile phones. Recognizing and addressing the connection between mobile phone usage and disease transmission informs public health strategies, emphasizing the need for effective hygiene practices to mitigate illness outbreaks.

24) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Hygienic practices are crucial for infection prevention, especially in environments where mobile phones are commonly used. Education on maintaining hygienic conditions around devices helps reduce bacterial contamination, thereby safeguarding both individual and public health within community and healthcare contexts.

25) Gurung:
Gurung may refer to a contributor or researcher whose work enhances understanding of mobile phone-related microbial contamination. Insights gained from various studies help establish guidelines for improving hygiene and inform healthcare practitioners about potential risks associated with mobile device usage.

26) Family:
Family health involves understanding how infection risks, including those from bacteria on mobile devices, impact household members. Educating families about hygiene practices is vital for disease prevention, promoting healthier environments, and reducing the transmission of pathogens within homes.

27) Indian:
In this context, 'Indian' likely signifies the geographical and cultural aspects of the research conducted in India concerning mobile phone contamination. Understanding unique local practices contributes to developing culturally relevant interventions to improve hygiene and decrease the prevalence of infections.

28) Campu:
Referring to 'Campus,' this term highlights the study's focus within the context of educational environments. Conducting research on mobile phone contamination in campus settings emphasizes the importance of hygiene among students and staff and informs policies for improving health standards in academic institutions.

29) Adhya:
Adhya is likely an author referenced in studies exploring the implications of mobile phone usage on hygiene. Research contributions from individuals like Adhya emphasize the need to address microbial contamination, thereby reinforcing knowledge-sharing within academic and public health communities.

30) Joshi (Josi):
Joshi may refer to a researcher whose work contributes to understanding microbial contamination in specific settings. Engaging with studies from authors like Joshi aids in the broader investigation of hygiene practices and the influence of mobile phones on public health outcomes.

31) India:
India, as a context for research studies, provides valuable insights into the patterns of mobile phone use and bacterial contamination. Understanding the unique challenges and practices in India enhances global knowledge on hygiene and infection prevention strategies, informing future public health initiatives.

32) Patel:
Patel may refer to a contributor in the research or studies focused on microbial contamination and hygiene within healthcare settings. Collaboration among researchers like Patel enhances the understanding of infection control practices and encourages comprehensive approaches to improve public health awareness.

33) Blood:
Blood is often a medium for transmitting infections, and understanding the link between mobile phone contamination and bloodborne pathogens is crucial. Research focusing on how mobile devices might act as foci for these pathogens can inform practices aimed at safeguarding patient safety and improving healthcare protocols.

34) Alam (Alaṁ):
Alam refers to a place or person and may be linked with the study's context. Addressing microbial contamination within specific locales, such as Alam, emphasizes the need for region-specific research and hygiene practices tailored to the local population dynamics and healthcare settings.

35) Rana:
Rana typically indicates a researcher or contributor to studies on hygiene and infection. The works associated with Rana highlight the interplay between mobile phone usage and microbial presence, advancing the dialogue on cleanliness and health risks encountered in everyday life.

36) Life:
In the context of health and medicine, life involves understanding the interactions between humans and their environment, including the implications of hygiene practices for promoting healthy living. Proper hygiene, especially concerning mobile phones, is vital in fostering a healthier life and preventing infections.

37) Container:
In scientific research, containers are vital for safely transporting and storing samples, such as swabs from mobile phones. Using appropriate containers ensures sample integrity during analysis, facilitating accurate identification of microbial contaminants and supporting effective conclusions in health studies.

38) Teaching:
Teaching is essential in shaping health education and promoting hygienic practices among students and professionals. Structured programs can foster awareness regarding mobile phone hygiene and its importance in preventing infections, contributing to improved practices in healthcare settings and academic environments.

39) Nostril:
The nostril is significant in understanding the transmission of pathogens, as microorganisms from nasal secretions can contaminate surfaces, including mobile phones. By studying bacterial presence from the nostrils, researchers can better comprehend infection pathways and implement effective hygiene measures in health settings.

40) Dealing:
Dealing with bacterial contamination involves implementing strategies to reduce and manage microbial presence on frequently used items like mobile phones. Research informs best practices for dealing with hygiene challenges, influencing public health policies and individual actions in clinical and community settings.

41) Account:
Account refers to documenting and analyzing findings from research studies. Accurately accounting for microbial contamination establishes a foundation for evidence-based practices that aim to improve hygiene regulations and mitigate risks associated with mobile device usage in healthcare environments.

42) Cotton:
Cotton may refer to the material used in swabs or cloths for cleaning mobile devices. Selecting appropriate materials for cleaning procedures is essential to reduce the potential for transmitting pathogens, and studies on effective cleaning methods directly influence hygiene practices among users.

43) Desire:
Desire indicates the motivation behind conducting research aimed at understanding and improving hygiene practices. The desire to mitigate health risks associated with mobile phones drives researchers to investigate contamination issues and ultimately seek solutions to enhance public health safety.

44) Ghana:
Ghana serves as a geographical reference for studies examining bacterial contamination in mobile phone use among its population. Collecting data from Ghanaian contexts provides insights into local hygiene practices, which can inform broader public health strategies tailored to different cultural settings.

45) Water:
Water is fundamental to hygiene practices. It is used for handwashing and cleaning mobile devices, essential in reducing microbial contamination. Understanding water's role in maintaining cleanliness helps highlight the importance of access to clean water in public health interventions.

46) Sugar:
Sugar may allude to environmental factors affecting microbial growth on mobile phones, as sweet substances can attract bacteria. Understanding connections between environmental factors—like food residues—and microorganism colonization offers insights critical for establishing effective cleaning guidelines and enhancing hygiene standards.

47) Field:
Field encompasses the broader area of research encompassing health, microbiology, and hygiene study contexts. Understanding microbial contamination in varied fields underlines the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to public health, enabling collaborations across sectors to address infection risks effectively.

48) Sweating (Sweat):
Sweat can contribute to the microbial environment on mobile phones, providing nutrients that promote bacterial growth. Investigating the impact of sweat on contamination highlights areas for improved hygiene practices, emphasizing the need for regular cleaning and sanitation of commonly used items.

49) Line:
In scientific research, 'line' may refer to a line of inquiry or the delineation between different study parameters. Understanding how to draw these lines effectively ensures that studies yield clear, actionable insights into microbial contamination and helps refine public health recommendations.

50) Seat (Seated):
The reference to 'seat' likely highlights the comparison between mobile phone surfaces and other known contaminated areas, such as toilet seats. Drawing such comparisons underscores the importance of mobile phone hygiene, illustrating the potential public health implications of using these commonly touched devices.

51) Post:
Post refers to documenting and sharing findings from studies or communicating results to the public or scientific community. Effectively posting research outcomes, especially relating to hygiene and contamination, plays a vital role in raising awareness and promoting preventive measures against bacterial infections.

Other Health Sciences Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Mobile Phones as Bacterial Transmission Vectors in Malaysian Universities’. Further sources in the context of Health Sciences might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

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