Characterization of the Prevalence and Antibiotic Resistance of <i>Staphylococcus</i> Species in an Exercise Facility in Central Kentucky, USA
The spread of methicillin-resistant <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i> (MRSA) in community settings, including fitness/exercise centers, remains relevant for public health. MRSA, a cause of severe infections in some, can be transmitted through shared equipment and skin contact. Understanding i...
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| Main Authors: | , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-01-01
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| Series: | Hygiene |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2673-947X/5/1/2 |
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| Summary: | The spread of methicillin-resistant <i>Staphylococcus aureus</i> (MRSA) in community settings, including fitness/exercise centers, remains relevant for public health. MRSA, a cause of severe infections in some, can be transmitted through shared equipment and skin contact. Understanding its prevalence and the frequency of antibiotic resistance in such environments can be useful for informing hygiene and intervention strategies. For investigating, multiple environmental swabs were collected from 14 different sites within a fitness facility, including equipment and locker rooms. Samples were collected for characterizing the prevalence of staphylococci (including MRSA), <i>E. coli</i>, and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE). Isolated colonies were identified biochemically and evaluated for antibiotic resistance. Logistic regression was applied to assess risk across different surfaces. Among 42 samples, the highest prevalence of <i>Staphylococcus</i> spp. was on locker room surfaces. <i>S. aureus</i> was prevalent on locker room floors and benches. Non-<i>S. aureus</i> species, such as <i>S. saprophyticus</i> and <i>S. haemolyticus</i>, were common. Resistance to oxacillin and penicillin was widespread, particularly among non-<i>S. aureus</i> species. <i>E. coli</i> was detected once, and CRE was not detected. Fitness center surfaces can harbor staphylococci, including MRSA. The results obtained corroborate other studies finding notable antibiotic resistance among staphylococci from fitness center surfaces. Hygiene improvements, including personal hygiene actions, are essential for reducing transmission risks. |
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| ISSN: | 2673-947X |