The Changing Face of Water: A Dynamic Reflection of Antibiotic Resistance Across Landscapes

Abstract

Little is known about the role of surface water in the propagation of antibiotic resistance (AR), or the relationship between AR and water quality declines. While healthcare and agricultural sectors are considered the main contributors to AR dissemination, few studies have been conducted in their absence. Using linear models and Bayesian kriging, we evaluate AR among Escherichia coli water isolates collected bimonthly from the Chobe River in Northern Botswana (n = 1997, n = 414 water samples; July 2011–May 2012) in relation to water quality dynamics (E. coli, fecal coliform, and total suspended solids), land use, season, and AR in wildlife and humans within this system. No commercial agricultural or large medical facilities exist within this region. Here, we identify widespread AR in surface water, with land use and season significant predicators of AR levels. Mean AR was significantly higher in the wet season than the dry season (p = 0.003), and highest in the urban landscape (2.15, SD = 0.098) than the protected landscape (1.39, SD = 0.051). In-water E. coli concentrations were significantly positively associated with mean AR in the wet season (p < 0.001) but not in the dry season (p = 0.110), with TSS negatively associated with mean AR across seasons (p = 0.016 and p = 0.029), identifying temporal and spatial relationships between water quality variables and AR. Importantly, when human, water, and wildlife isolates were examined, similar AR profiles were identified (p < 0.001). Our results suggest that direct human inputs are sufficient for extensive dispersal of AR into the environment, with landscape features, season, and water quality variables influencing AR dynamics. Focused and expensive efforts to minimize pollution from agricultural sources, while important, may only provide incremental benefits to the management of AR across complex landscapes. Controlling direct human AR inputs into the environment remains a critical and pressing challenge.

Distribution of Antibiotic-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae Pathogens in Potable Spring Water of Eastern Indian Himalayas: Emphasis on Virulence Gene and Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Escherichia coli

“…Surface water remains a connecting link between the emergence and distribution of antibiotic resistance among pathogens due to direct disposal of fecal and agricultural runoff, and the hospital and municipal wastewater effluents (Grenni et al, 2018). Once the antibiotic resistance bacteria enters the waterways, they can either be consumed by humans or animals and can cause infections, or they can transfer ARGs to other bacteria which are present in that environment (Sanderson et al, 2018). In Sikkim, to maintain the continuity of water supply to the community, spring water is being collected and supplied to the community via pipelines.…”

Temporal and geographical research trends of antimicrobial resistance in wildlife - A bibliometric analysis

“…Several studies have reported wildlife species as potentially important reservoirs of resistant microorganisms and resistance genes [ 19 , 20 ]. For example, Escherichia coli isolates producing extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) have been isolated from wild boar ( Sus scrofa ) in several European countries [ [21] , [22] , [23] ], putting at stake the efficacy of beta-lactam antibiotics ( e.g. penicillin), which are among the most important class of antimicrobial agents used in human and veterinary medicine.…”

Impact of wave action and rainfall on incidence and antibiotic resistance of total coliforms in Southern California beaches

“…Previous studies have reported increased antibiotic resistance in rivers and lakes after rain ( Zhang et al . 2016 ; Sanderson et al . 2018 ).…”

“…2010 ; Middleton & Salierno 2013 ; Kumar et al . 2018 ; Sanderson et al . 2018 ) and seawater ( Cooke 1976 ; Rabbia et al .…”

“…Recent studies ( Zhang et al . 2016 ; Sanderson et al . 2018 ) have shown that rain is associated with higher incidences of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.…”