Microbiological Assessment of Crèche Environments and Their Risk to Infant Health in Selected Crèches in Ibadan, Oyo State

Crèches and nurseries accommodate infants and toddlers in their most immunologically vulnerable developmental stage, making environmental microbiological safety a critical public health consideration. This study assessed microbial contamination of environmental surfaces in ten registered crèches in Ibadan, Oyo State, South West Nigeria, with a focus on surfaces directly contacted by infants including feeding mats, toy surfaces, changing tables, and toilet flush handles. Surface samples were collected using sterile swabs and replicate contact plates. Standard culture techniques were used for total bacterial counts and isolation of Staphylococcus aureus, Rotavirus antigen (by enzyme immunoassay), and Salmonella species. Concurrently, health records of 200 enrolled children were reviewed for episodes of diarrheal illness, respiratory infections, and skin infections over a three-month period. Results showed that 65 percent of crèches had surface contamination exceeding recommended limits. MRSA was identified in 30 percent of sampled crèches. Rotavirus antigen was detected on changing mat surfaces in 20 percent of crèches. Children enrolled in crèches with higher contamination scores had 2.4-fold higher odds of diarrheal episodes. These findings underscore the need for structured hygiene protocols specific to early childhood care settings, routine environmental microbiological surveillance, and caregiver training in infection prevention. Keywords: crèche environment, infant health, MRSA, Rotavirus, environmental hygiene.