Microorganisms Causing Diarrhea in Food Served at Islamic Boarding Schools: A Descriptive Study in Surabaya, Indonesia

Abstrak

Diarrhea remains one of the leading public health problems in Indonesia, particularly among children. Contaminated food with pathogenic microorganisms such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., Staphylococcus aureus, and Vibrio cholerae is a major contributor. Boarding school environments, where sanitation is often suboptimal, increase the risk of foodborne contamination. This study aimed to identify the presence of diarrhea-causing microorganisms in food consumed by students at one of islamic boarding school in Surabaya and to examine the potential risk factors for contamination. A descriptive observational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted. Food samples were purposively collected from three food stalls frequently visited by students. Microbiological analysis was performed using selective media: EMBA for E. coli, SSA for Salmonella and Shigella, MSA for Staphylococcus aureus, and TCBS for Vibrio cholerae. Data were analyzed descriptively and compared with standards from the Indonesian Ministry of Health and the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM). For the result, Laboratory examination revealed no contamination with E. coli, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., Staphylococcus aureus, or Vibrio cholerae in the food samples. However, several behavioral and environmental risk factors were observed, including poor handwashing practices, improper food storage at room temperature, and inadequate personal hygiene among food handlers and students. In conclusion, although laboratory findings showed no contamination by major diarrheagenic microorganisms, the risk of diarrhea remains due to poor hygiene and sanitation practices. Strengthening food hygiene education and sanitation practices within boarding schools is crucial for preventing diarrheal disease.be avoided, but if essential they must be defined at their first mention in the abstract itself.