Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Contamination of Mobile Phones and Associated Hygiene Practices

Background: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a significant cause of antimicrobial-resistant infections. Mobile phones, due to frequent handling and inadequate cleaning, may act as reservoirs for pathogenic bacteria. Objective: To detect Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA on mobile phones and assess antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and associated usage habits. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2022 at Prime Asia University, Dhaka. Forty mobile phone swabs were collected from students, security staff, faculty staff, canteen staff, and cleaning staff. S. aureus was identified using standard microbiological methods, MRSA was detected phenotypically, and antibiotic susceptibility was assessed by disc diffusion. Results: Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from all samples, with 87.5% showing methicillin resistance. High resistance was observed to cephalosporins and vancomycin, while amikacin (92.5%) and ciprofloxacin (85%) showed high susceptibility. MRSA prevalence was highest among security and cleaning staff and was associated with poor phone hygiene practices. Conclusion: Mobile phones can act as reservoirs for MRSA. Regular disinfection and good hygiene practices are essential to reduce microbial transmission.