Isolation and Antibiogram Pattern of Bacteria Isolated from Automated Teller Machine (ATM) at Abuja Campus, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Abstract

The growing use of automated teller machines (ATMs) has sparked worries about possible microbial contamination on ATM keypads, which might be harmful to the general public's health. This study examines the antibiotic resistance characteristics of the bacterial infections linked to ATM keypads at the University of Port Harcourt's Abuja campus in Nigeria. Tests for antimicrobial susceptibility, bacterial isolation, and identification were carried out on swab samples obtained from different bank ATMs. Common contaminants found in the research were Staphylococcus, Bacillus, Enterobacter, Aerobacter, Photohabdus, and Micrococcus species. With a 40% prevalence, Bacillus species predominated, followed by Staphylococcus species at 30%. The range of total heterotrophic counts was 3.38–4.69 Log Cfu/ml. The necessity for efficient biocides was highlighted by the antimicrobial susceptibility tests, which showed different resistance patterns in Gram-positive and Gram-negative isolates. This study demonstrates the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and emphasizes the importance of microbial contamination on ATM keypads for public health. Advocating for the slowing of the spread of resistant microbes, research promoting frequent surveillance, hygiene education, and the creation of antimicrobial measures is endorsed. All things considered, insightful information on the microbial environment of often-touched surfaces was provided by the results, emphasizing the advocacy for taking preventative measures to reduce the health hazards related to ATMs.