Prevalence Study of Multi-Drug Resistant Escherichia coli in Drinking Water from Karad City

Abstract

This study investigates the prevalence of Multi-Drug Resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli (E. coli) in drinking water sources within Karad City, employing a comprehensive sampling strategy and utilizing both traditional culture-based methods and molecular techniques for E. coli identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing. With rising concerns about antimicrobial resistance (AMR) globally, understanding the extent of MDR pathogens in water reservoirs is crucial for public health management. The findings reveal a concerning prevalence of MDR E. coli strains in the drinking water sources of Karad City, highlighting potential risks to public health and the environment. The research underscores the urgent need for effective surveillance and management strategies to mitigate the spread of MDR E. coli in drinking water supplies, serving as a basis for policymakers, public health authorities, and environmental agencies to implement targeted interventions aimed at ensuring the safety and purity of water sources in Karad City and beyond. Moreover, the study emphasizes the importance of adopting multidisciplinary approaches integrating microbiology, environmental science, and public health to address the complex challenges posed by antimicrobial resistance in waterborne pathogens. The methodology section details the sampling strategy, isolation and identification of E. coli, antibiotic susceptibility testing, and molecular techniques utilized, while the results section discusses the overall prevalence of E. coli in drinking water samples, distribution of MDR E. coli strains across different sampling sites, antibiotic resistance profiles of identified E. coli isolates, and a comparison between traditional and molecular techniques. The discussion section delves into the implications of findings on public health, factors contributing to the prevalence of MDR E. coli in drinking water, comparison with previous studies, limitations, and future directions. In conclusion, the study emphasizes the significance of this research for water quality management and public health interventions.