Bacterial Contamination, Antimicrobial Susceptibility Patterns, and Drug Resistance on Frequently Touched Surfaces in Public Transport Vehicles (Hiaces) in Northwestern Tanzania

This study, conducted from March to May 2025 in Mwanza, north-western Tanzania, assessed bacterial contamination, antimicrobial susceptibility, and drug resistance on frequently touched surfaces in public transport vehicles (hiaces).A cross-sectional study of 50 hiaces yielded 385 swab samples from surfaces like seat backs, handrails, and door handles, with data collected via driver questionnaires and analyzed microbiologically within two hours.Pathogenic bacteria were isolated from 266 samples (69.1%), predominantly coagulase-negative Staphylococci (26.7%) and Staphylococcus aureus (24.8%), along with E. coli (14.6%),Enterococcus (8.6%), Klebsiella (8.0%), Salmonella and Shigella (6.1% each), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (5.1%).S. aureus showed high resistance to ampicillin (94.9%) and clindamycin (42.3%), while coagulase-negative Staphylococci exhibited greater resistance to oxacillin (67.9%) and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (82.0%).Among Gram-negative bacteria, E. coli was notably resistant to ampicillin (91.3%) and ceftriaxone (63.0%), while Klebsiella species demonstrated 100% resistance to ampicillin and substantial resistance to other antibiotics.Multidrug resistance (MDR) was observed in 43.6% of isolates, especially in 67.2% of Gram-negative bacteria, with Klebsiella and E. coli as the most frequent MDR pathogens.Methicillinresistant S. aureus (MRSA) accounted for 37.2% of S. aureus isolates and extended-spectrum βlactamase (ESBL) producers were found in 31% of Gram-negative isolates.Significant contamination factors included surface type, uncleanliness, and sampling time.The findings reveal high bacterial contamination and antibiotic resistance in public transport, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced hygiene and regular sanitation to reduce infection risks.