Tackling Antimicrobial Resistance through Wastewater Monitoring

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is when bacteria and other microorganisms have developed a resistance to antibiotic interventions intended to target these organisms. This is also commonly known as antibiotic resistance. 

Sometimes referred to as superbugs, antimicrobial-resistant bacteria are a growing health concern as the risks of an increasing number of serious illnesses become more difficult to prevent. 

How Do Antimicrobial Resistant Bacteria Spread?

There are three common ways AMR bacteria are transmitted; human-to-human, animal-to-human and environmental contamination. 

Between humans, these bacteria are spread via contaminated hard surfaces, respiratory droplets and direct physical contact with infected people. 

Overuse of antibiotics with food-producing livestock can lead to the development of antimicrobial resistance. This AMR bacteria can then be transmitted to humans through the consumption of contaminated animal products.

At C.E.C. Analytics, our ability to sample water virtually anywhere is a key tool to combat AMR. Antibiotics and antibiotic-resistant bacteria can reach our groundwater and surface water via regular agricultural run-off as well as through traditional wastewater; all posing a great risk to both human and environmental health. 

Risks & Consequences of AMR Bacteria

Rising levels of antimicrobial resistance not only make infections and illnesses more difficult to overcome but they also result in increased hospital stay durations, increased medical labour costs, and higher mortality rates. This threatened untreatability of common infections is a major danger to already struggling public health bodies worldwide. 

The emergence of AMR bacteria also has a significant impact on One Health, a concept recognizing that human health is interconnected with both environmental health and animal health. AMR pathogens are not always selective, and those derived from humans can impact other organisms, and vice-versa. Identifying AMR bacteria in water and wastewater is a key tool for protecting human and environmental health.

The Role of Water Sampling in Combatting AMR Bacteria

Water surveillance, sampling and testing play a major role in monitoring and preventing the spread of antimicrobial-resistant microorganisms in communities. 

Through regular water sampling, we can detect the presence of AMR bacteria, and other contaminants of emerging concern long before cases rise in our public health clinics. The use of our patented autosamplers and data analysis also allows for tracking the emergence of new resistance types. Plus, the compact size of our autosamplers makes it possible to sample water and wastewater virtually anywhere.

Using our water sampling technology and data, public health and governing bodies can make informed decisions and interventions including the promotion of responsible antibiotic use and strengthened prevention and control measures.