Date of Completion

2023

Document Type

Research Project

Degree Name

Grade 12

Keywords

second-hand clothing, ukay-ukay stores, bacterial isolates, antibiotic susceptibility, colony morphology

Abstract

Throughout history, clothing's significance has evolved from a basic survival necessity to becoming an integral part of human social and cultural identity. Their sanitation significantly influences the health and condition of humans wearing these garments. For instance, clothes can serve as a reservoir for bacteria, fungi, and other germs that benefit or harm human health. Recent studies reveal the complex relationship between clothing and the microorganisms in our surroundings. This study aims to isolate, identify, and characterize the most common bacteria found in Second-Hand Clothing (SHCs) in Dasmarinas Cavite from three cotton shirts sampled from each of three random ukay-ukay stores. Bacterial isolates underwent colony morphology, VITEK Analysis for species identification, and Kirby-Bauer susceptibility test. Various types of bacteria have been detected in the sampled SHCs, including Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and two variants of Bacillus spp, B.cereus, and B. pumilus. The said bacterial isolates are resistant to Oxacillin and susceptible to antibiotics such as Ciprofloxacin and Chloramphenicol. Hence, the study recommends that the key industry adopt more robust sanitation practices and that consumers take safety measures when shopping in ukay-ukay stores to mitigate the potential health risks associated with SHCs.

First Advisor

Ramgie M. Bartolata

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