Bacterial Contamination of Fingernails and Artificial Nails in Enugu Metropolis

Fingernails are hard, claw-like structures at the ends of fingers and toes in most primates, including humans, where they are located at the tips of the hands. They are often exposed due to daily activities and have been identified as potential sources of bacterial infections, as they tend to harbor microbes. This is further aided by bacterial biofilms that promote microbial adherence. This study examined bacterial contamination of natural and artificial fingernails among students of the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, and traders at Ogbete Main Market, within Enugu metropolis. A cross-sectional approach was adopted to evaluate bacterial contamination in fingernails. A total of 200 fingernail samples were collected, 100 from university students and 100 from market traders. Although there was no significant difference in the average number of bacterial isolates based on nail type or participant group (p>0.05), a significant difference was observed in the distribution of specific bacterial types between natural and artificial nails (X² = 41.56, p = 0.0005), indicating that artificial nails harbor more diverse bacteria. Among traders, Staphylococcus aureus was the most common isolate (21.36%), followed by Bacillus subtilis (19.42%). Among students, Bacillus subtilis (16.67%) was slightly more prevalent than Staphylococcus aureus (15.63%). Both artificial and natural fingernails can carry bacterial contaminants, with artificial nails harboring a greater variety and quantity. Promoting hand hygiene and discouraging the use of artificial nails are recommended preventive strategies.

Keywords: Fingernails, Artificial Nails, Natural Nails, Bacterial Contamination, Staphylococcus Aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Nail Length And Hygiene, Market Traders, Microbial Isolates, Hand Hygiene