Bacterial Contamination of Children’s Toys in Some Houses in Sana’a City, Yemen

Abstract

Bacteria can invade from outdoors and infect toys for kids. Children might become infected by contaminated toys and are at the risk of contracting an illness. The study aims to isolate and identify bacteria found on the surfaces of children’s toys, to determine antibacterial susceptibility against various disinfectants, and to evaluate hygiene knowledge of mothers. A total of 30 children’s toys samples were collected and subjected to microbiological examination. The results showed that 20 of 30 toys samples were positive for bacterial growth. Most bacteria found in children’s toys were Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus sp. The results of antibacterial susceptibility showed that Chlorex had the strongest effect on isolated bacteria, followed by disinfectants which were Dettol and Dikitol. While Fourtol had no effect on these bacteria. Almost every kind of toy sample was contaminated with bacteria. Mothers need to be more conscious of the fact that their understanding of how to clean toys is inadequate. This study recommended that children should be taught proper hygiene practices, that toys should be managed by closing them after use, and cleaning according to their kind.