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ABSTRACT
Fungi are ubiquitous eukaryotic organisms that can occur as yeast, mold, smuts, rusts, mildew. Curtains serve as a haven and breeding ground for fungi growth and dispersal . However, curtains are a very common yet constantly neglected residential accessory. This study evaluates the presence of fungi in the indoor environment on residential curtains and their contribution to the health of individuals inhabiting residence. Isolation of fungi for analysis was done by sampling random residential houses' curtains using sterile cotton swabs on a defined dimensions of 150cm² on curtain and returned to the laboratory for further analysis with the use of pour plate method for culture of the swab organisms.Use of questionnaires was included as survey for better understanding of the cause of contamination. Cultural and morphological tests were used for identification of the isolates. The results showed presence of fungal contamination; some fungi isolated were Aspergillus niger, Penicillium spp, Cladosporium spp and Mucor mucedo. The results evaluated that 100% respondents have curtains installed and based on the questionnaire 43.2% had 2-3 occupants, 12.6% for 4-6 occupants, 23.2% for more than 7 occupants and 21.1% for just one occupant. Based on the results the heterotrophic count ranged from log10 2.5±0.522sfu/cm²(for just one person) to log10 3.46± 0.11sfu/cm²(for 4 and above). The fungal occurrence are Aspergillus niger 35.29%, Cladosporium spp 17.65%, Penicillium spp 23.53% and Mucor mucedo 23.53%.Each isolate was further analyzed for antibiotic sensitivity using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method with antifungal Voriconazole and Nystatin. Phenotypic virulence properties such as Protease test, with all isolates except Aspergillus niger tested negative and Lipase solubilization, all isolates tested positive. Fungi are highly adaptive and can be easily be dispersed and inhaled as a result of spore formation and can inhabit even the most neglected areas of the residence such as curtains hence the need for maintenance to keep their presence in the residential household at minimal.
