Assessing Hygiene Risks: Microbial Contamination on Surfaces of Public and Household Latrines at the District Level in Ghana.

Abstract

Latrines play a critical role in maintaining public health but can also act as reservoirs for microbial contamination, particularly in low-resource settings. This cross-sectional study assessed hygiene risks by quantifying microbial loads on high-touch surfaces of public and household latrines in Ghana. A total of 200 surface swabs were collected with 80 from public latrines and 120 from household toilets. Samples were analyzed for Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and total coliforms using standard culture methods. Results were expressed as log₁₀ colony-forming units per square centimeter (CFU/cm²). Mean microbial loads were significantly higher on surfaces of public latrines than on household toilets (p < 0.05). Door handles and flush levers showed the greatest contamination, with E. coli reaching 3.82 ± 0.41 log₁₀ CFU/cm² in public latrines compared with 1.61 ± 0.32 log₁₀ CFU/cm² in household toilets. Cleaning frequency and disinfectant use were inversely associated with surface contamination. These findings demonstrate that communal sanitation facilities may pose greater hygiene risks than private toilet facilites due to inadequate cleaning and overcrowding. Strengthening sanitation management through regular disinfection, adequate maintenance, and user hygiene education is essential to reduce potential pathogen exposure and improve overall environmental health.