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[Salmonellae in the Parma River: 2 years of monitoring]
Abstract:
During the period April 1987-February 1989 the contamination of Parma river by Salmonella was studied. These pathogens were almost constantly isolated all over the period of survey (91.7% of samples were positive). The concentration of Salmonella Spp, evaluated as MPN/1, appeared to be also remarkable, ranging from 1 to 92/l. The variety of serotypes appeared furthermore considerable either regarded on the whole (38 serotypes) or related to the single drawings (from 2 to 14 serotypes simultaneously present in 90.9% of samples). Some serotypes as: S. typhimurium, S. livingstone, S. brandenburg, S. panama, have been recovered from most of samples, some others as S. give, S. Stanleyville, S. agona have been recovered only in a few times.
Insights
Salmonella contamination was consistently high in the Parma River between 1987-1989, with over 91% of samples testing positive. A significant diversity of Salmonella serotypes were detected throughout the study period.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Microbiology
- Public Health Microbiology
Background:
- River systems are crucial for ecological balance and human water supply.
- Pathogen contamination in water bodies poses significant public health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and diversity of Salmonella contamination in the Parma River.
- To quantify Salmonella concentrations and identify frequently occurring serotypes.
Main Methods:
- Systematic water sampling over an 18-month period (April 1987-February 1989).
- Isolation and identification of Salmonella species using standard microbiological techniques.
- Quantification of Salmonella using Most Probable Number (MPN) method.
- Serotyping of isolated Salmonella strains.
Main Results:
- Salmonella was detected in 91.7% of all samples, indicating constant contamination.
- Salmonella concentrations ranged from 1 to 92 Most Probable Number per liter (MPN/l).
- A wide variety of 38 Salmonella serotypes were identified, with 2 to 14 serotypes present in 90.9% of samples.
Conclusions:
- The Parma River exhibited persistent and significant Salmonella contamination during the study period.
- The high diversity of Salmonella serotypes suggests multiple sources of contamination.
- Findings highlight the need for monitoring and potential interventions to improve water quality.