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Bacterial contamination of computer touch screens

Charles P Gerba1, Adam L Wuollet2, Peter Raisanen1

  • 1Department of Soil, Water and Environmental Science, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ.

American Journal of Infection Control
|March 5, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Opportunistic bacteria, including Clostridium difficile and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus, were found on hospital touch screens. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was detected on grocery store touch screens, with more enteric bacteria found in stores.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Public Health
  • Environmental Hygiene

Background:

  • Touch screens are increasingly prevalent in public spaces, including healthcare and retail environments.
  • The surfaces of frequently used devices can harbor microorganisms.
  • Understanding microbial contamination on touch screens is crucial for infection control.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the presence and types of opportunistic bacterial pathogens on computer touch screens.
  • To compare bacterial contamination levels between hospital and grocery store environments.

Main Methods:

  • Surface swabs were collected from computer touch screens in hospitals and grocery stores.
  • Bacterial cultures were performed to identify isolated microorganisms.
  • Statistical analysis was used to compare contamination rates between the two settings.

Main Results:

  • Opportunistic pathogens such as Clostridium difficile and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus were identified on hospital touch screens.
  • Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was detected on grocery store touch screens.
  • Enteric bacteria were found to be significantly more prevalent on grocery store touch screens compared to hospital touch screens.

Conclusions:

  • Computer touch screens in both hospitals and grocery stores can serve as reservoirs for opportunistic bacterial pathogens.
  • The type and prevalence of bacteria differ between healthcare and retail environments.
  • Enhanced cleaning protocols for touch screens in public areas are recommended to mitigate potential health risks.
Keywords:
Clostridium difficileColiformsComputer touch screenMethicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureusVancomycin-resistant enterococcus

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