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Multidrug-Resistant Outbreak-Associated Salmonella Strains in Irrigation Water from the Metropolitan Region, Chile
M C Martínez1,2, P Retamal2,3, J F Rojas-Aedo1
1Environmental Health Department, Public Health Institute of Chile, Santiago, Chile.
Salmonella enterica, a common cause of foodborne illness in Chile, was detected in water sources. Multiresistant strains matched clinical isolates, indicating a public health risk from water pollution.
Area of Science:
- Environmental microbiology
- Food safety
- Public health
Background:
- Salmonella enterica (S. enterica) is a primary cause of foodborne diseases in Chile.
- Contamination of water bodies by S. enterica poses a significant public health concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the presence and genetic relatedness of S. enterica in water bodies used for agriculture in Chile.
- To assess the antimicrobial resistance profiles of detected S. enterica isolates.
Main Methods:
- Water samples were collected from 40 rivers and irrigation canals in populated regions of Chile.
- S. enterica isolates were identified, serotyped, and tested for antimicrobial resistance.
- Pulse-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) was used to compare environmental isolates with clinical isolates.
Main Results:
- 35 S. enterica isolates were detected, with Typhimurium and Enteritidis being the most frequent serotypes.
- All isolates exhibited antimicrobial resistance, with many showing multiresistance to critical antimicrobials.
- Seven isolates shared identical PFGE patterns with outbreak-associated clinical isolates, suggesting a link.
Conclusions:
- Agricultural water sources in Chile are contaminated with S. enterica, including multiresistant strains.
- The genetic similarity between environmental and clinical isolates highlights a potential public health risk.
- Animal husbandry in rural areas may contribute to the environmental dissemination of this pathogen.
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