Microbiological Evaluation of Handkerchiefs: Enumeration and Identification of Bacterial Isolates

Abstract: Background: Handkerchiefs are widely used personal hygiene items that frequently come into contact with nasal, oral, and skin secretions, making them potential reservoirs of pathogenic microorganisms. Despite their routine use, limited research has been conducted to evaluate bacterial contamination on handkerchiefs, particularly among college students. Objective: This study aimed to isolate, enumerate, and identify bacterial species from used handkerchiefs and assess their potential pathogenicity, with implications for personal hygiene and public health. Methods: A total of 50 used handkerchief samples were collected from both male and female students of BSMS at Nandha Siddha Medical College and Hospital, Erode. Samples were obtained using sterile cotton swabs and inoculated on Nutrient Agar, MacConkey Agar, Mannitol Salt Agar, and Blood Agar. Cultures were incubated at 37 °C for 24–48 hours, followed by colony characterization, Gram staining, and standard biochemical tests for bacterial identification. Results: Of the 50 samples, 40% yielded normal flora (including Staphylococcus epidermidis and Micrococcus spp.), while the remaining 60% showed potential pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The majority of contaminated samples were obtained from female participants. Conclusion: The presence of potentially pathogenic bacteria on used handkerchiefs underscores the importance of regular washing, proper drying, and adherence to personal hygiene practices to prevent disease transmission. Public health education should emphasize the safe handling and maintenance of personal items to reduce microbial spread.