ABSTRACT
Urinary tract infection (UTI) refers to the presence of microbial pathogens within the urinary tract and it is usually classified by the site of infection as bladder (cystitis), kidney (pyelonephritis) or urine (bacteriuria). The most common symptoms are burning with urination and having to urinate frequently (or an urge to urinate) in the absence of vaginal discharge and significant pain. These symptoms may vary from mild to severe the mainstay of treatment of urinary tract infections is antibiotics. Diagnosing a urinary tract infection (UTI) involves the identification of causative pathogens in urine samples. In order to access the prevalence and sensitivity pattern of urinary pathogens, 30 midstream urine samples were collected from students of University of Benin, between the ages of 15-27yrs and were investigated using cultural methods. Samples were examined microscopically and cultured in nutrients, Mannitol Salt Agar and Macckonkey agar. Disk diffusion method was used for antibiotic testing of the isolates. Out of the total 30 urine samples collected,24 came out to be positive for UTI. Among the 24 sample,11 samples belong to male and 13 belong to female. It was observed that female had the highest positive occurrence. Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus sp. were the most predominant Organisms. The isolates were sensitive to Ciprofloxacin (most sensitive), Gentamicin, and Augmentin, the most resistant were Tetracycline, Colistin, Erythromycin, metronidazole, and Clindamycin. Therefore, Ciprofloxacin, Gentamicin, and Augmentin, were recommended for the treatment of UTI as indicated in the study. The presence of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus sp. in the urinary samples were common due to various factors, Escherichia coli is a normal inhabitant of the gastrointestinal tract and can enter the urinary tract through improper hygiene or sexual activity. Staphylococcus species are opportunistic pathogens and can colonize various body surfaces, including the urinary tract, especially in females. Improper wiping after urination or defecation can result in transfer of organisms from the anus to the distal urethra. In order to prevent or decrease resistance to antibiotics, the use of antibiotics should be kept under supervision, should be given in appropriate doses for an appropriate period of time. Through a combination of proper hygiene, adequate hydration, and awareness of risk factors, individuals can take proactive steps to reduce the likelihood of UTIs.
