High Prevalence of Multi-Drug Resistant Escherichia Coli in Drinking Water Samples from Hyderabad

Background: Antibiotic resistance in pathogenic bacteria is a serious public health issue. Various factors contribute to the spread of antibiotic-resistant micro-organisms in the environment. This study was aimed at measuring the antibiotic sensitivity profile of Escherichia coli in drinking water samples from Hyderabad. Material & Methods: Samples of drinking water were collected from various locations in Hyderabad city. Antibiotic resistance pattern was determined against commonly used antibiotics, using standard Disc Diffusion method. Results: Out of 42 samples collected in 27 (64.29%) E. coli were isolated. Maximum resistance was observed against Nalidixic Acid (92.6%), followed by Ampicillin (88.89%), ceftriaxone (40.74%), ciprofloxacin (37.04%), ceftazidime (25.23%), cefotaxime (18.52%), and gentamicin (18.52%). Whereas none of the E. coli isolates showed resistance against Amikacin. Multi-drug resistance (3-6 antimicrobials) was seen in 62.96% of E. coli isolates from drinking water. Conclusion: Drinking water in Hyderabad is heavily contaminated with potentially pathogenic multi drug resistant strains of E. coli. The source could possibly be the mixing of sewage lines with drinking water supply. Presence of multi drug resistant E. coli in drinking water can act as a vehicle to disseminate antibiotic resistance to other bacteria. This suggests a need to educate people regarding the rational use of antibiotics and safe disposal of antibiotic containing waste.