Bacteriological Assessment of Palms of Students of Delta State University, Abraka

The bacteriological assessment of palms of students of Delta state University Abraka, was undertaken. A total of hundred samples were collected using a sterile swab sticks. Streak plate method was used and also biochemical test carried out following standard procedures. Results showed growth on ninety-three (93) cultured plates (93%). Bacteria isolates identified were Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Proteus sp., Streptococcus sp, Bacillus sp., Salmonella sp. and Klebsiella. Staphylococcus aureus had the highest prevalence of 41% while, Salmonella sp (1%) was the least prevalent. Results also showed that female students had a higher incidence of bacterial load (58%) compared to the male students (42%), There is therefore a need to create awareness among students on good hand hygiene practices since the hand is a major reservoir of pathogenic organisms.