Abstract

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In this study, isolation and characterization of microorganisms associated with trimmed human nails were investigated. The trimmed nails were collected from three Manicure and Pedicure shops along Adewole Estate, Ilorin, Kwara State over a period of nine weeks. Microbial isolation was done using a standard serial dilution technique. The colonial morphology and biochemical study of the isolates indicated two gram positive cocci and three gram negative rod bacteria. These bacteria were Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacter species. Fungi isolated were Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigates, Alternaria species, Cladosporium species, Geotrichum candidum, and Rhizopus nigricans. The study reveals that hygienic practices of both the attendants and the patrons at the manicure and pedicure shops may have not been adequate enough and hence both are advised to improve their hygienic level in order to prevent transmission of the associated diseases.

Keywords: Microorganisms, hygienic level, colonial morphology, manicure, pedicure.