Abarca, Gracia B., Alberca, Dean Andrei J., Dela Rosa, Karl Angelo S., Nemis, Atheena Ysabelle B., Rivera, Winslette G. 4 0

Prevalence of medically important bacteria on handrails and seats of public utility vehicles in selected garages from Sampaloc, Manila 6 6 Abarca, Gracia B., Alberca, Dean Andrei J., Dela Rosa, Karl Angelo S., Nemis, Atheena Ysabelle B., Rivera, Winslette G. - - - 169 pages - - - - - . - . - 0 . - . - 0 .

Undergraduate Thesis: (BS Biology major in Medical Biology) - Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, 2024





5



ABSTRACT: The reliance of Filipinos on public transportation, which accommodates 70% of road commuters, highlights the importance of understanding the microbiological burden in these environments. This study aims to assess the prevalence of medically significant bacteria on handrails and seats of public utility vehicles (PUVs) in Sampaloc, Manila. Bacterial samples were collected from taxis and buses using swab methods and subsequently cultured, isolated, and identified through colony morphology, biochemical testing, and molecular analysis. The study focused on both Gram-positive bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Enterococcus spp., and Gram-negative bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Statistical analyses, including two-way ANOVA and Chi-Square Test for Independence, were used to evaluate bacterial prevalence, while Spearman's rho was employed to correlate cleaning practices with bacterial presence. The findings revealed the presence of S. aureus, Enterococcus spp., and E. coli on handrails and seats, with a lower prevalence compared to international studies. No significant difference in bacterial distribution was found between different vehicle types or fomites. However, frequent cleaning practices were significantly correlated with reduced bacterial isolates, though the type of cleaning tools used did not significantly impact bacterial prevalence. Additionally, a significant association was found between bacterial prevalence and the incidence of symptoms and diseases among drivers, indicating increased health risks with higher bacterial presence. This study highlights the crucial role of regular and effective cleaning practices in mitigating bacterial contamination in public transport vehicles.













5







2 = =









2




2 --0------


6 --0-- 2 --------



0 2 --


--20------





--------20--


--------20--


----2

/ 2

/ 2

/

/