Article Title

Transmission of Escherichia coli Through Toilet Seats

Authors

Kenna Atienza, Kean UniversityFollow
Diana Ludizaca, Kean UniversityFollow
Carisa Davis, Kean UniversityFollow

Abstract

Microbes are found on all kinds of surfaces, but not all are pathogenic. Bathrooms are perceived by the public as an important area in the transmission of pathogenic microbes, and the purpose of this project was to investigate the transmission of bacteria from toilet seats to skin. Escherichia coli strain K-12 was applied to the toilet seat and different methods were used to see which was the best way to prevent the transmission of bacteria to the skin. E. coli strain K-12 was identified in samples using the differential media, Eosin Methylene Blue agar. The experiment found that cleaning the toilet seat prior to use will be the most effective method for stopping transmission, and that using a paper barrier will not stop the transmission.

Recommended Citation

Atienza, Kenna; Ludizaca, Diana; and Davis, Carisa (2021) "Transmission of Escherichia coli Through Toilet Seats," Kean Quest: Vol. 3: Iss. 2, Article 2.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.kean.edu/keanquest/vol3/iss2/2