Prevalence and Risk Factors of Bacterial Contamination on Healthcare Professionals' Mobile Phones in a Cameroonian Tertiary Hospital: Efficacy of Common Decontamination Methods

Mobile phones have become essential tools in both daily life and healthcare environments. However, their widespread use in clinical settings raises concerns regarding their role in transmitting pathogenic bacteria. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of bacterial contamination on the mobile phones of healthcare professionals (HPs), identify the isolated organisms, evaluate common decontamination methods, and determine associated risk factors. A prospective cross-sectional analytical study was conducted from June to July 2024, involving 162 HPs selected through convenience sampling. Data on hygiene practices and mobile phone usage were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Mobile phones were swabbed and analyzed in a microbiology laboratory for bacterial cultures. Bacterial contamination was found on 66.7% of the samples. The predominant isolates included Staphylococcus saprophyticus (29.6%), S. epidermidis (20.4%), and S. aureus (11.1%). Key risk factors identified included inadequate hand hygiene (OR = 5.876), infrequent disinfection of phones, and the absence of structured cleaning protocols. Disinfectants such as 10% bleach and 70% alcohol demonstrated efficacy, although their effectiveness varied depending on contact time. The mobile phones of HPs may serve as significant reservoirs for potentially harmful bacteria. Implementing standardized disinfection protocols is crucial for reducing the risk of cross-contamination in healthcare environments.