Assessment of Surface Contamination by Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus Species in Selected Hospitals in the Akoko Region of Ondo State, Nigeria

Aims: Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) species are among the most significant nosocomial pathogens, known for their ability to survive on environmental surfaces for extended periods and contribute to hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). This study evaluated the prevalence and persistence of VRE on high-touch surfaces in selected hospitals in the Akoko area of Ondo State, southwest Nigeria. The aim of this study is to provide important information on the risk of healthcare-associated vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus infection in the studied region. Methodology: High-touch surfaces, including doorknobs, bedframes, patient bedside tables and hand washing basins were sampled with moistened swab sticks. The samples were enriched in Tryptic soy broth before being inoculated on Bile esculin azide (BEA) agar for the isolation of Enterococcus species. The identity of colonies characteristic of Enterococcus species on BEA agar was confirmed based on their cellular morphology and biochemical reactions. The susceptibility of the Enterococcus species isolates to vancomycin and selected antibiotics was evaluated based on CLSI guidelines. Results: Enterococcus species were isolated from 14 (15.5%) of the samples collected from the three hospitals studied. Most of the isolates were resistant to one or more antibiotics tested, with three (21.43 %) of the isolates resistant to Vancomycin. Conclusion: Results from this study demonstrated the potential for hospital surfaces to act as reservoirs of VRE infection in medical facilities studied.