Detection of Antibiotic Resistant organisms in Water Sources in Okada Town, Edo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Water is an indispensable resource for the existence of all living things, human beings especially. This study investigated the physicochemical properties of drinking water and water used for domestic purposes in Okada town to ascertain their suitability for consumption and also the possible detection of antibiotic resistant organisms in such water sources. A total of six water samples were obtained for the study. Standard methods were employed in the estimation of the physicochemical properties of the samples, isolation and characterization of bacterial isolates from the samples. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests were performed on the isolates using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. The physicochemical properties of all the samples fell within the normal range when compared to the WHO maximum permissible levels. The isolates obtained from three samples were Gram positive cocci and Gram negative bacilli bacteria and had a probable identity of Staphylococcus sp, Coagulase negative Staphylococcus sp, Klebsiella sp, Escherichia coli. The Bacterial isolates were resistant to various antibiotics such as the cephalosporins, gentamicin, cloxacillin, augmentin, nitrofurantoin, ampicillin and ciprofloxacin. The detection of antibiotic resistant organisms is of public health importance and may be possible reason for prolonged therapy of water borne diseases. Accurate diagnosis and appropriate administration of drugs will help in the control of antibiotic resistant bacteria. Proper treatment of water especially before consumption is recommended.