Microbiological Assessment of Female Washroom Toilet Seats with Antibiotic Susceptibility Profiling of Predominant Bacterial Isolates in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India

Background Public washroom toilet seats may act as reservoirs of potentially pathogenic microorganisms and contribute to the spread of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. Environmental monitoring of these surfaces is important for evaluating public health risks and improving hygiene practices. Objective This study aimed to assess the microbiological contamination of female washroom toilet seats in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India, and to determine the antibiotic susceptibility profiles of the predominant bacterial isolates. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using thirty-two swab samples collected from female western-style toilet seats located at seven different sites in Dehradun. Samples were cultured on Cystine Lactose Electrolyte Deficient (CLED) agar and identified by colony morphology, Gram staining, and standard biochemical tests including Indole, Catalase, Simmons Citrate, and Triple Sugar Iron (TSI) tests. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method following Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Results Bacterial growth was observed in all samples. Twenty-four isolates (75%) were identified as Pseudomonas spp., while eight isolates (25%) were identified as Escherichia coli . The E. coli isolates showed susceptibility to most of the antibiotics tested. The Pseudomonas isolates demonstrated susceptibility to amikacin, gentamicin, and ciprofloxacin, while resistance was observed against nitrofurantoin with reduced susceptibility to tetracycline, doxycycline, and tigecycline. Conclusion Female washroom toilet seats can serve as reservoirs of opportunistic bacterial pathogens. The predominance of Pseudomonas species and the observed antimicrobial resistance patterns emphasize the importance of regular sanitation, environmental surveillance, and rational antibiotic stewardship to minimize potential public health risks. Clinical trial registration Not applicable.