Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-9-2011

Abstract

Microorganisms are present everywhere in the environment. Unbeknownst to most people Staphylococcus aureus is a primary pathogen responsible for many skin infections and is carried by 25% of humans in the anterior nares. Due to the infective nature of Staphylococcus aureus, it is important to determine its prevalence on fomites by testing commonly used surfaces. For these reasons a research experiment was designed to determine the prevalence of S. aureus and Methicillin Resistant S. aureus (MRSA) in computer labs on the campus of Southern Adventist University during the fall semester of 2010. The research experiment was conducted in computer labs found in Southern’s classrooms with high student usage. Moist sterile cotton applicators were used to swab computer mice, and all locations were tested six times over a period of three months. A total of 476 fomites were tested for the presence of Staph. aureus and MRSA, both of which were found on these surfaces. Out of the 476 fomites tested, 6% contained S. aureus, and 2% contained MRSA. Based on the results of the six trials performed it can be concluded that both Staph. aureus and MRSA are present but not widespread on the campus of Southern Adventist University. Further research should be conducted to detect change in frequency of MRSA on these surfaces.

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