Motorcycle Helmets as Potential Fomites in Transmission of Pathogenic Micro-organisms and Antibacterial Activity of Helmet Disinfectant Spray

Helmets provide protection to our heads from grave injuries. Though they offer plenty of advantages, they act as breeding grounds for infectious pathogens. Despite the high possibility of being contaminated, helmets are seldom cleaned. There is less awareness among general public about transmission of pathogens through helmets and their disinfection process. The present study seeks to identify the types of bacteria and fungi contaminating helmets and to enlighten the participants about the good hygienic practices. In the present study, 30 bacteria were isolated and identified. Among the 30 isolates, 3 were found to be gram positive cocci in clusters (10%) followed by 8 gram negative rods (27%) and 19 were found to be gram positive rods (63%). A total of 23 fungi were isolated and identified in our study. Helmet cleaning and microbiological safety are key concerns for numerous and regular users. Spray disinfection solutions based on chemicals can be utilised nowadays. Antibacterial activity of a helmet disinfectant spray (Ustraa) was done by both spread plate method as well as by disc diffusion method. The total colonies which developed following spread plate method for both before and after the application of a helmet disinfectant spray were observed to be 167 colonies and 91 colonies respectively. The antibacterial activity of a helmet disinfectant spray by disc diffusion method exhibited bactericidal activity by producing a zone of inhibition of 21mm.