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Bacterial pathogens isolated from cockroaches trapped from paediatric wards in peninsular Malaysia
P Oothuman1, J Jeffery, A H Aziz
1Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur.
Abstract:
A survey was conducted in 4 paediatric wards in Malaysia to determine the distribution of various species of cockroaches and to examine their gut contents for bacteria. Cockroaches were trapped from food dispensing areas (kitchens), store rooms, cupboards and open wards. 104 cockroaches were caught, consisting of Periplaneta americana (67.3%), Blattella germanica (26%), P. brunnea (4.8%), and Supella longipalpa (1.9%). Bacteria were isolated from all cockroaches except 3 P. americana. Many bacterial species were identified, including the pathogenic and potentially pathogenic species Shigella boydii, S. dysenteriae, Salmonella typhimurium, Klebseilla oxytoca, K. ozaena and Serratia marcescens.
Insights
This study surveyed cockroaches in Malaysian pediatric wards, finding common species like Periplaneta americana carry pathogenic bacteria. This highlights potential risks in healthcare environments.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Public Health
- Entomology
Background:
- Cockroaches are common pests in healthcare settings.
- Their role in pathogen transmission within pediatric wards is a public health concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify cockroach species prevalent in Malaysian pediatric wards.
- To investigate the bacterial load, including pathogenic species, in the gut of these cockroaches.
Main Methods:
- Cockroaches were trapped from various locations within 4 Malaysian pediatric wards.
- Gut contents were analyzed for bacterial isolation and identification.
- Species distribution and bacterial presence were documented.
Main Results:
- Periplaneta americana was the most abundant species (67.3%), followed by Blattella germanica (26%).
- Bacteria were isolated from 97% of the trapped cockroaches.
- Pathogenic bacteria, including Shigella, Salmonella, Klebsiella, and Serratia species, were identified.
Conclusions:
- Cockroaches in Malaysian pediatric wards harbor a significant number of pathogenic bacteria.
- This finding underscores the importance of integrated pest management in healthcare facilities to mitigate infection risks.