Isolation and Identification of Microorganisms Associated with Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in Unizik, Awka Campus, Nigeria

Millions of individuals use automated teller machines (ATM) every single day.
Anyone can use this machine, regardless of their class, age, or race. The hands, which are naturally 'vaults' of germs, serve as the contact site for all ATM machines. For a thorough evaluation of any potential microbiological contamination on the campus of UNIZIK Awka, a thorough survey was conducted. In order to evaluate, identify, and assess the level of bacterial contamination of microoganisms and their potential as reservoirs of microbes, a sample of ATMs on campus were employed as a case study. Each ATM's screen, buttons, floor, user's hand, and exposed plate all received swabs. The samples were placed in nutrient agar after being collected. The results showed the presence of increased bacterial count subsequently, most pathogens on characterization revealed the genus of the particular organisms Staphylococcus aureus, Mycobacteria, E. coli, Salmonella Shigella, and Klebsiella spp. The study showed the potential hazard inherent in ATM machine usage and draws attention to our level of hand hygiene compliance.