Issue Date
2025
Abstract
Public restrooms provide convenience outside the home but are frequented by many users daily, creating a risk of microbial contamination on commonly touched surfaces such as flush levers and faucet handles. This study assessed microbial loads on these surfaces across genders and floors and aimed to isolate antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus species and characterize Enterobacteriaceae. Samples were collected from flush levers and faucet handles across three floors of Wing C, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines. Results showed that faucet handles (7.9 × 109CFU/cm2) harbored higher microbial loads than flush levers (5.3 × 109CFU/cm2), and female restrooms exhibited greater contamination than male restrooms. Phenotypic characterization suggested that the dominant Enterobacteriaceae were Enterobacter spp. (33.3%, 5/15) and Providencia spp. (26.7%, 4/15). Among Staphylococcus isolates, Micrococcus yunnanensis (G3-FL1 C) was susceptible to all tested antibiotics, while Staphylococcus taiwanensis (G2-FU3 B) was resistant to azithromycin, and Staphylococcus haemolyticus isolates (B2-FU1 B and B2-FU1 C) exhibited resistance to cefoxitin, gentamicin, or azithromycin. Although this study was based on a single sampling event and should not be generalized to all restrooms at the University, it provides preliminary insight into the microbial diversity present on high-contact restroom surfaces. These findings highlight the importance of proper hygiene practices among users and the need for regular cleaning and provision of antibacterial soaps to minimize contamination and protect public health.
Source or Periodical Title
UP Los Baños Journal
ISSN
0117-1461
Volume
23
Issue
1
Page
82-98
Document Type
Article
College
College of Arts and Sciences (CAS)
Language
English
Subject
Public restrooms, Microbial contamination, Hygiene
Recommended Citation
Estillore, Jan Patricia S.; Flores, Ronilo Jose D.; and Jamora, Renard M., "Evaluation of bacterial contamination on flush levers and faucet tap handles in the Institute of Biological Sciences building restrooms, University of the Philippines Los Baños" (2025). Journal Article. 6499.
https://www.ukdr.uplb.edu.ph/journal-articles/6499