Journal of Global Ecology and Environment

Mobile phones are among the most frequently used personal electronic devices and are increasingly recognized as potential reservoirs for microorganisms. Their continuous handling, close contact with skin, and infrequent cleaning contribute to the accumulation of bacteria and other microbes, posing risks for cross-contamination and infection transmission. This study aimed to investigate the microbial load and diversity associated with a single mobile phone shared among multiple users. Swab samples were collected from distinct areas of the device, including the touchscreen, edges, buttons, and back cover. Samples were cultured on nutrient agar, and isolates were identified based on colony morphology, Gram staining, and biochemical tests. Two specific bacterial species were isolated and identified from the shared device: Bacillus subtilis, a Gram-positive spore-forming bacterium, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a Gram-negative secondary pathogen. The highest microbial load was detected on the touchscreen, followed by the buttons and the back cover. Bacillus subtilis was predominantly isolated from the back cover and buttons, while Pseudomonas aeruginosa was more abundant on the touchscreen surface. These findings align with previous studies reporting high contamination levels on handheld electronic devices. The study highlights the role of shared mobile phones as significant vectors for potential pathogens and emphasizes the need for regular disinfection, proper hand hygiene, and increased awareness regarding device cleanliness to minimize disease transmission risks.