Determination of Microbial Load Accumulating in Paper Mouth and Face Masks and Obtaining Antimicrobial Properties with Chamomile Extract

The aim of this study was to determine the microfungi and bacteria accumulated in different usage periods of paper mouth and face masks which are used for protection against microfungi and bacteria in many areas and to give antimicrobial properties to these masks by impregnating Chamomile extract with high antimicrobial properties. Disc diffusion test was applied in this study. The mouth and face masks used for different periods (3-6-12 hours) were cultured on the media to calculate the microbial load. Nutrient Agar and Malt Extract Agar were used to determine bacterial loads. Then, the paper mouth and face mask were impregnated with different concentrations of chamomile extract and microbial loads were compared. The results of the study show that the use of chamomile extract in paper mouth and face masks, where fungus flora is low and bacteria flora is rich, has the effect of reducing microbial load. These paper masks impregnated with chamomile extract concentration can be used in first aid units, clinics, surgery, dental units and so on. places can be used to prevent the spread of infection. At the same time, this study is expected to be the source of similar studies.

Microbial growth behind tiles in bathrooms

Studies investigating microbial diversity in buildings have been performed mainly through the study of dust collected from e. g. floors and door frames and on moisture damaged building materials. A great diversity of mould fungi has been found and the fungus flora is dominated by the genera Aspergillus and Penicillium. The building materials targeted in this specific study were sampled on the back of ceramic tiles from bathroom walls and floors. Furthermore, two different analyses were used to investigate to which degree this specific environment was supportive of microbial growth. Microbial findings were detected in 48 % of the specimens from the spots exposed to liquid water in the bathrooms. To our knowledge, the microbial occurrence in this type of environment has not previously been investigated..