Microbiological and molecular analysis of the microbiota of insects present in the surgical area.

BACKGROUND

The presence of insects in hospital environments poses a potential risk for the dissemination of pathogenic bacteria, including multidrug-resistant species. Despite strict sanitation protocols, some arthropod populations persist in less regulated areas, potentially acting as mechanical vectors of bacterial contamination.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to analyze the bacterial diversity associated with insects collected in hospital settings and assess their potential role in spreading pathogens relevant to public health.

METHODS

A descriptive observational approach was employed to identify and classify bacterial taxa associated with hospital-collected insects. High-throughput sequencing was used for taxonomic classification at the phylum, family, and genus levels.

RESULTS

Proteobacteria was the predominant phylum, additionally we found families such as Moraxellaceae and Mycobacteriaceae, known to include clinically relevant species. The genera Acinetobacter and Mycobacterium were particularly abundant in some samples, raising concerns about their potential role in nosocomial infections. Other identified bacteria included Pseudomonas, Escherichia, and Shigella, albeit at lower frequencies. The persistence of these bacteria in hospital environments suggests that insects may contribute to their dissemination.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings highlight the need for enhanced arthropod control measures in healthcare facilities as part of routine biosecurity protocols. The presence of multidrug-resistant bacteria associated with hospital-dwelling insects reinforces their role in pathogen transmission, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive vector management strategies to mitigate nosocomial infection risks.