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Fungal carriage of hospital trapped cockroaches: A prospective study
Yassine Merad1,2, Malika Belkacemi3, Zakaria Merad4
1Department of Parasitology-Mycology, Djilali Liabes University of Medicine, Sidi Bel Abbes, Algeria.
Abstract:
Cockroaches are considered parasite carriers, and their nocturnal habits and regular contact with various environments make them ideal carriers of diverse fungal species. The aim of this study was to isolate superficial fungi carried by cockroaches trapped at our health care institution. A total of 100 cockroaches were captured from 6 wards of the hospital and were investigated for the presence of fungi on their external surface by using SDA medium. In this survey, 78% of the sampled cockroaches were contaminated with 96 fungi of medical importance, and the fungal prevalence was linked to some hospital areas, such as nephroplogy-haemodialysis p = 0,013 OR = 1367 IC95% (1199-1558), which could be explained by the presence of dialysis devices in which cockroaches can hide. Correlations were found between cockroach fungal contamination and the following variables: kitchen p = 0,026, OR = 1,349, IC95% (1190-1530); toilets p = 0,011, OR = 2,813, IC95% (0,868-9112); and patient rooms p = 0,01, OR = 3,621, IC95% (1322-9920), probably due to cockroaches searching for food among waste, garbage, skin flakes, and hair. The main fungi isolated were Rhizopus sp (21,9%), Candida non candida (16,7%), Aspergillus niger (15,6%), and Lichtheimia sp (12,5%). These results suggest that cockroaches act as carriers of several medically important fungi and could be involved in their transfer to hospital settings. There is a need for better control of these insects, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and patient rooms.
Insights
Cockroaches in hospitals carry medically important fungi, posing a health risk. Effective insect control in patient areas, kitchens, and bathrooms is crucial to prevent fungal transmission.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Hospital Infection Control
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Cockroaches are known vectors for pathogens due to their habits and environment.
- Fungal contamination by cockroaches in healthcare settings is a significant concern for patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and identify superficial fungi carried by cockroaches in a healthcare institution.
- To determine the prevalence and potential sources of fungal contamination associated with cockroaches within the hospital.
Main Methods:
- Cockroaches were collected from various hospital wards.
- Fungal presence on external surfaces was assessed using Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) medium.
- Statistical analysis was performed to identify correlations between fungal contamination and hospital areas.
Main Results:
- 78% of cockroaches were contaminated with 96 medically important fungi.
- High fungal prevalence was observed in nephrology-haemodialysis units (OR=1367), kitchens (OR=1.349), toilets (OR=2.813), and patient rooms (OR=3.621).
- Dominant fungi isolated included Rhizopus sp. (21.9%), Candida non-albicans (16.7%), Aspergillus niger (15.6%), and Lichtheimia sp. (12.5%).
Conclusions:
- Cockroaches serve as significant carriers of medically important fungi in hospitals.
- Fungal transfer to hospital environments is facilitated by cockroach presence, particularly in high-traffic areas.
- Enhanced integrated pest management strategies are essential for controlling cockroach populations and mitigating fungal transmission risks in healthcare facilities.
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