Incidence Of Staphylococcus Aureus, Escherichia Coli And Salmonella Species In Hawked Akpu

ABSTRACT

The occurrence of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella species in hawked akpu was studied in Umuahia Metropolis. Ten samples of hawked akpu were obtained from Umuahia Main Marl. et. The samples were cultured on Nutrient Agar to determine the total viable counts and the presence of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella species were dictated on Manitol salt Ager, MacCoukey Agar and Salmonella — Shigella Agar respectively. The results indicated that Staphylococcus aureus occurred in 50% of the samples while Escherichia coli and salmonella species was 20% and 30% occurrence respectively. The total viable count ranged from 3.3 x103 — 8.7 x 107. Sample 3 recorded the highest total viable count while sample 6 recorded the least total viable count. The study indicated that hawked akpu sold in Umuahia were contaminated with potentially pathogenic bacteria. This may have important public health implications.