Digital Fomites: Bacteria on College Lab Mice

James Timbilla, Gheorghe Proteasa and Cheryl Meddles-Torres

Background and Objective: Shared computer equipment in academic settings can serve as fomites for microbial transmission, yet contamination of computer mice remains understudied. This study aimed to characterize microbial contamination on computer mice in two computer laboratories at Queensborough Community College (QCC), New York. Materials and Methods: Thirteen computer mice from each laboratory (12 student and 1 instructor computer per lab; total n = 26) were sampled using sterile swabs and Tryptic Soy Agar plates. Microbial growth was assessed using a 0-4 rating scale, followed by isolation and molecular identification of pure cultures. Statistical comparisons of mean colony counts and microbial diversity were performed at p<0.05. Results: Laboratory A exhibited higher mean colony counts (1.2 vs. 0.8) and greater microbial diversity than Laboratory B. Five species were isolated from Laboratory A-Peribacillus simplex, Priestia megaterium, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Metabacillus halosaccharovorans and Micrococcus luteus-while Laboratory B yielded four species-Staphylococcus capitis, S. epidermidis, S. hominis and M. luteus. Cocci predominated in Laboratory B (8 isolates vs. 5 in A), whereas Bacillus species were exclusive to Laboratory A (6 isolates). Conclusion: Computer mice harbor diverse microorganisms of human and environmental origin. Although only non-pathogenic organisms were detected, their presence highlights the need for routine surface disinfection and improved hygiene practices in shared academic computing environments. Future studies could explore temporal dynamics and potential pathogenic strains to further assess public health risks.

View Fulltext Back