Microbiological evaluation of hygiene techniques used in 3D glasses, reusable from cinemas in Salvador, Bahia

Abstract

Introduction: The new 3D projection systems in movie theaters have brought suitability to the glasses, becoming reusable and no longer disposable. Thus, questions arise about possible cross-infections from this re-use. Despite the legal obligation, the sanitization of the glasses is left under the responsibility of the movie theaters. Aims: This paper aims to evaluate the effectiveness of hygiene technics used in 3D glasses in movie theaters in Salvador, Bahia. Methodology: Samples were collected for microbiological analysis in not sanitized and sanitized 3D glasses, considering the forms of sanitization used in these (manual and automated), were analyzed the Gram negative and Gram positive bacteria, as well as thermotolerant coliforms. Results: Twelve microorganisms were identified from the analyzed samples. A significant difference was observed in the frequency of bacteria between sanitized and not sanitized glasses, but there was no significant difference regarding the sanitization method. Discussion: The bacterium most frequently found are part of the microbiota of the ocular surface, but in certain conditions they may become pathogenic, causing risks to their host. Conclusion: The most frequent microorganism in 3D glasses is coagulase negative Staphylococcus; The not sanitized presents a significant reduction in the frequency of microorganisms in both methods, manual or automated.

 Keywords: Glasses. Movie Theater. Sanitization. Contamination. Bacteria.