Prevalence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acanthamoeba spp. Co-Infection in Dust from Public Parks in Eastern Thailand

Abstract

Background: We investigated the prevalence and environmental factors associated with co-infection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acanthamoeba spp. in dust from public parks in Eastern Thailand, where industrial activity and air pollution may enhance pathogen survival and pose public health risks. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to September 2023, with 336 dust samples collected from public parks in seven provinces of Eastern Thailand. Samples were analyzed using microscopy and PCR for Acanthamoeba spp. detection, and co-infection with P. aeruginosa was confirmed by PCR. Environmental data, including temperature, humidity, PM2.5 and PM10, were analyzed for associations with infection rates. Results: The prevalence of Acanthamoeba spp. was 22.32%, with 75 samples positive microscopically and 43 confirmed by PCR. Of these, 57.33% showed coinfection with P. aeruginosa. Prachinburi province had the highest co-infection rate (75%). Temperature was significantly associated with co-infection rates (P= 0.02), while humidity, PM2.5 and PM10 showed no significant correlations. Conclusion: This study highlights the prevalence of P. aeruginosa and Acanthamoeba spp. co-infection in Eastern Thailand’s public parks, emphasizing its link to temperature. The findings underscore the role of dust as a pathogen reservoir and the need for public health strategies to reduce exposure risks.