Mobile phones, seen as indispensable tools for healthcare professionals nowadays, become potential carriers of hazardous bacteria, particularly gram-negative bacteria that produce carbapenemase and extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL). Regular use of these devices can put patients at risk for nosocomial (hospital-acquired) infections, and due to the lack of adequate disinfection routines, they may become potent vectors for bacterial pathogens spread, including multi-drug resistant microorganisms. Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) not only lead to increased mortality rates and healthcare costs, but also pose a significant threat to the overall healthcare system. Therefore, the importance of establishing and adhering to strict infection control measures, hygienic practices, and mobile disinfection routines is more than evident.
A hospital-based cross-sectional study conducted in Ethiopia between August and October 2022, monitored 226 mobile phones of healthcare workers for the production of beta-lactamases and the associated antibiotic resistance in gram-negative bacteria. The research revealed the dangerous fact that a staggering 42% of mobile phones were shown to be carrying said bacteria. Underground bacteria-like E.coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were found to be the most prevalent culprits. It was also found that using mobile phones inside hospital toilets, the use of specific types of phones, the lack of regular phone disinfection, and improper phone handling practices were significantly associated with bacterial contamination. Due to critical implications, the emergence of antibiotic resistance in hospital environments, regular disinfection of mobile devices is advocated.
Nosocomial infections are accelerated by the frequent and indiscriminate use of mobile phones by users in hospitals – healthcare workers, patients, and visitors alike. This culminates into an open breeding ground for bacteria, as these devices are constantly in contact with the user’s skin, offering an optimum environment for bacteria to thrive. Other potential sources of bacterial contamination include handbags, pockets, food, skin and environmental practices.
Considering this, it’s crucial to maintain strict infection control measures, good hygienic practices, and regular disinfection of mobile devices in order to limit infections, cross-contamination, and the emergence of antibiotic resistance in hospital environments. Especially in developing countries like Ethiopia, persistent monitoring and research must be conducted to raise awareness, alarm relevant healthcare stakeholders, and prevent the emergence of superbugs due to gram-negative bacteria.