Determination of fecal coliforms on inert surfaces of a shopping center in the city of Cuenca

Abstract

Introduction. Fecal coliforms are common microorganisms found in the intestinal microbiota. They are considered harmless when their quantification falls within permissible parameters. However, enterobacteria are often observed on surfaces with high human traffic, such as shopping malls. The development of such bacterial presence is usually attributed to inadequate aseptic practices and poor personal hygiene. Detecting the presence of enterobacteria serves as an indicator of potential fecal contamination. Objective. This study aims to determine and quantify the presence of fecal coliforms on inert surfaces within a shopping center in the city of Cuenca. Methodology. The study adopts an observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional approach.

Results. In this study, 166 samples were collected from various inert surfaces within the shopping center. Samples were taken before the establishment's opening and after its closing to capture differing levels of human activity. High-traffic areas such as chairs, tables, railings of electric bleachers, and elevator buttons were targeted. The analysis revealed the presence of fecal coliforms in 74.69% of the samples examined. Conclusion. The findings highlight a significant increase in positive samples for fecal coliforms after the establishment's closing. Klebsiella pneumoniae, a dominant strain identified, is linked to various opportunistic infectious pathologies. The bacterial contamination within the establishment is associated with deficiencies in aseptic practices and personal hygiene.