A Study on the Isolation and Analyzation of Staphylococcus aureus Obtained from Nasal Samples of Female Students (Undergraduates and Graduates) at The Obafemi Awolowo University Campus

Abstract

One of the predominant bacteria found in the nose is Staphylococcus aureus, and they are found in approximately the same number as on the skin and face. The study was carried out to isolate and analyze Staphylococcus aureus obtained from the nasal cavity of female students (at undergraduate and postgraduate levels) of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife campus, Osun state, Nigeria. Out of 40 samples obtained from the nasal cavity of the female students, a total of 9 isolates were confirmed as Staphylococcus aureus. Based on the biochemical tests, they were all Gram-positive cocci in clusters, catalase positive, coagulase positive and were also DNase positive. Based on these criteria, we concluded that individual should ensure that their nose is kept clean and should practice good hygiene especially in a hospital environment to prevent nosocomial infections due to Staphylococcus aureus.