Resistotyping of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Automated Teller Machine, Bikaner, Rajasthan, India

Background: Antimicrobial medications have long been utilized to combat harmful germs in various settings such as homes, workplaces, and hospitals. Nevertheless, prolonged use of these medications has led to the emergence of resistant bacteria. The constant human contact and environmental factors create favorable conditions for the colonization and transmission of bacteria, including those carrying antibiotic-resistance. So, the emergence and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria pose a significant threat to global public health. Aims: The present study isolate, identify, and determine the antibiotic resistance pattern of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus isolated from crowded and non-crowded Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) within a 3-4 km radius of government PBM (Prince Bijay Singh Memorial) hospital, Bikaner, Rajasthan, India. Place and Duration of Study: This Descriptive observational study carried out at Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, M. N. College and Research Institute (https://www.mncollegebkn.com/), for the period of 2 months from May 2024 to July 2024. Methodology: A total of 14 swabbed samples (7 from screens and 7 from keyboards) were collected from 7 different private and government ATMs within the 3-4 km vicinity of PBM Hospital. Swabbed samples were cultured, and E. coli and S. aureus were isolated. Biochemical analysis and antibiotic susceptibility testing were performed on all isolates. Escherichia coli isolates were further screened for ESBL (Extended- Spectrum β-Lactamases) production. Results: Out of 28 isolates, 26 (92%) were found resistant to two or more drugs. The Multiple Antibiotic Resistance (MAR) index was above 0.2 for all except 2 isolates, suggesting exposure to high antibiotic load environments. Among the E. coli isolates 14 were screened for ESBL production, of which 4 (29%) tested positive. The Shannon diversity index was found to be low which was less than 1.5, with the evenness of 0.942 for E. coli and 0.903 for S. aureus. By integrating these strategies- enhance hygiene practices for public interfaces like ATMs, rigorous infection control protocols among healthcare workers and prudent antibiotic stewardship-healthcare facilities can significantly reduce the incidence of nosocomial infections, thereby improving patient outcomes and reducing associated healthcare costs. Conclusion: ATMs may act as potential vectors for nosocomial infections, primarily due to frequent human contact. The study highlights the need for regular disinfection protocols, especially for ATM keypads and screens. Additionally, further studies are needed to identify the underlying multidrug resistance mechanisms of these bacterial isolates.