IWRA Proceedings

INTRODUCTION

Campylobacter spp. are among the leading etiological agents of gastroenteritis in humans worldwide. These pathogens that are becoming resistant to clinically relevant antibiotics such as fluoroquinolones, tetracycline and macrolides. Campylobacter infections have been mainly attributed to the consumption of contaminated food but ingestion of contaminated water is a risk factor. There is evidence suggesting that rivers play an important role in the spread and transmission of Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria (ARB) in the community (Abia et al., 2018). The presence of ARBs such as Campylobacter species in river water is due to wastewater, animal excreta and livestock farming practices. The Swartkops River flows through urban areas of the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Municipality and is impacted by various anthropogenic activities. Antibiotic Resistant Campylobacter is an emerging pollutant in river water as it has been detected at high concentrations higher than expected.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the local prevalence of antibiotic resistant Campylobacter in source waters and the factors that lead to their presence in the Swartkops River.

METHODOLOGY

• This study conducted a comprehensive review of scientific databases to investigate prevalence of antibiotic resistance among Campylobacter species in South Africa in water.
• Then, information on the drivers of Campylobacter pollution in the Swartkops River was collected through a questionnaire survey (183 households) and a participatory workshop involving the community (60 participants).
• Lastly, an exploratory study was conducted to assess the occurrence of Campylobacter spp and Campylobacter antibiotic resistant genes in the Swartkops river.

CONCLUSIONS

• The presence of antibiotic resistant Campylobacter in source water is a public health threat.
• Infection prevention and control through improved WASH at community level should be promoted.
• There is need for more awareness on the environmental effects of antibiotic resistance.
• Compliance and enforcement of regulation antibiotic use in humans and animals
• Improved monitoring and surveillance of ARB and ARGs in water
• At a policy level, ARB, ARGs concentrations in water should be included in water quality guidelines and standards
• Incorporation of Innovations and technology for removal/reduction of ARB and ARGs in effluent treatment eg. constructed wetlands
• Policy measures for curtailing the spread of antibiotic resistance from environmental hot spots.

19th January 2023, 11:20 CET