High microbiological contamination in surface waters in the upper basin of the Choluteca River in Honduras

Abstract

Microorganisms with a high pathogenic potential for humans and animals can spread through water. This represents a severe threat to public health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where sanitation conditions are often limited. Due to their constant presence in the intestine and feces of both people and animals, total coliforms, thermotolerant coliforms, and intestinal Enterococcus have historically been employed as indicators of fecal contamination to evaluate water quality for human use and consumption. Under no circumstances should water sources for human use and consumption have bacteria indicating fecal contamination. The objective of this study was to evaluate the microbiological quality of surface water from six sub-basins located in the upper basin of the Cholulteca River in Honduras and determine the Escherichia coli phylogroups isolated in these samples. Our results show high rates of fecal contamination, suggesting that surface waters in the upper Choluteca River basin are unsafe for human consumption. Phylogroups B1 and D were the most frequent among 29 E. coli isolates, while phylogroups C and F were the least frequent. Measures must be taken to raise awareness about sanitation and good practices for managing household waste and those generated by agro-industrial and livestock activities in the area. Surface water in the Choluteca River basin must be adequately treated before consumption because it may impact people's health. In addition, we encourage prompt decision-making by the health authorities. In conclusion, this study assessed the microbiological quality of water in the upper Choluteca River basin. Our findings show high rates of fecal contamination and the predominance of E. coli strains from phylogroups associated with fecal contamination, suggesting that these waters are unsafe for human consumption. Keywords: fecal contamination; E. coli; phylogroups; surface water; Choluteca River basin; Honduras