Survival and persistence of clinically relevant strains of toxigenic Vibrio cholerae on plastic and vegetation, under environmentally relevant conditions

Data were generated through laboratory experiments investigating the persistence, virulence, and survival of clinically relevant strains of toxigenic Vibrio cholerae. Bacteria were cultured on materials (Polyethylene [PE], polypropylene [PP] and banana leaf [BL]) and analysed for persistence over time (up to 28 days) and virulence using Galleria mellonella larvae. Materials (PE, PP and BL) were prepared and inoculated under controlled laboratory conditions. V. cholerae strains were inoculated onto materials in nutrient-rich and surface water environments. Sampling was taken at defined time points (7, 14, 21, 28 days). G. mellonella larvae were used to evaluate virulence, and survival was assessed over 72 h. The experiments utilised standard laboratory equipment such as 96-well plates and incubators. G. mellonella larvae were sourced from a local supplier and used within one week of delivery. Instrumentation used for bacterial enumeration, including the plate reader, was calibrated according to standard laboratory protocols. The data underwent rigorous quality control through replication (biological triplicates), statistical analysis (ANOVA), and controlled experimental conditions (e.g., temperature and material consistency). Statistical methods including ANOVA and Tukey’s post-hoc tests were applied to assess treatment effects and survival outcomes.