The bacterial burden on computer keyboards across selected university facilities at Liverpool John Moores University, City Campus, Byrom Street, Liverpool

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Environmental Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Universities are high-traffic environments with potential for bacterial contamination from various sources.
• Computer peripherals like keyboards and mice can act as reservoirs for harmful bacteria.
• Investigating bacterial burden in these shared spaces is crucial for understanding potential health risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the presence and types of bacteria on computer keyboards and mice at Liverpool John Moores University.
• To assess the effectiveness of disinfection in reducing bacterial counts and altering microbial diversity.
• To evaluate the potential health implications of identified bacterial contaminants.

Main Methods:

• Collected 478 pre- and post-disinfection swab samples from keyboards and mice across the university campus.
• Utilized sterile nutrient broth and blood agar for bacterial culturing at 37°C.
• Identified bacterial isolates using Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry.

Main Results:

• Significant microbial growth was observed in 64.4% of pre-treatment samples and 20.5% of post-treatment samples.
• Identified bacteria included Gram-positive cocci, Gram-positive bacilli, and Gram-negative cocci.
• Disinfection led to a notable reduction in bacterial presence.

Conclusions:

• Computer keyboards and mice on campus are contaminated with various opportunistic bacteria.
• These bacteria are unlikely to cause harm to immunocompetent individuals.
• Immunocompromised individuals face an elevated risk of infection from these environmental contaminants, potentially leading to comorbidities.