Kesmas: Jurnal Kesehatan Masyarakat Nasional (National Public Health Journal)
Vol. 21, No. 2

Environmental Contamination of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus in Primary Care Clinics: Implications for Occupational Safety

Ahmad, Subki (Unknown)
Awang, Normah (Unknown)
Abdull Hamid, Ermie (Unknown)
Ithnin, Anuar (Unknown)
Kamaludin, Nurul Farahana (Unknown)
Muhd Nor, Noraizah (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
29 May 2026

Abstract

Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus (VRE) are major contributors to healthcare-associated infection, yet data from primary care clinics remain limited. This study assessed environmental contamination in eight clinics in the Klang Valley, Malaysia, and evaluated associated environmental factors. Samples were collected from environmental surfaces and equipment in Medical Officer and Patient Treatment Rooms, then cultured and tested for antimicrobial susceptibility. Environmental parameters, including temperature, relative humidity, air movement, and room density, were measured. Data were analyzed using Kruskal–Wallis, Mann–Whitney, and multiple linear regression analyses. MRSA was detected on 19.8% of environmental surfaces (patient treatment beds (47.3%) and side tables (31.6%)), and 2.1% of equipment surfaces. No VRE was detected; however, Vancomycin-Sensitive Enterococcus was identified in several samples. Significant variation in MRSA contamination across sampling sites was observed (χ² = 25.664, p-value = 0.007). Regression analysis showed that room density (β = −3.285, p-value = 0.006) and temperature (β = −7.922, p-value = 0.012) were significant predictors of aerobic colony counts (R² = 0.157). The detection of MRSA on high-touch surfaces highlights occupational exposure risks in PHC. Strengthened infection prevention and control measures, targeted cleaning strategies, and improved spatial management are urgently required to mitigate environmental transmission.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

publication:kesmas

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions Public Health

Description

The focus of Kesmas is on public health as discipline and practices related to preventive and promotive measures to enhance the public health through a scientific approach applying a variety of technique. This focus includes areas and scopes such as Biostatistics, Environmental Public Health, ...