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Environmental mycobacteria in bottled table waters in Greece
M Papapetropoulou1, A Tsintzou, A Vantarakis
1Laboratory of Public Health, Medical School, University of Patras, Greece. papapet@hol.gr
Canadian Journal of Microbiology
|May 1, 1997
Summary
Environmental mycobacteria were detected in 15.6% of Greek bottled water samples. This finding suggests monitoring mycobacteria could assess hygienic quality, especially for immunocompromised individuals.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Environmental mycobacteria can be opportunistic pathogens.
- Bottled water is a potential source of microbial contamination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and types of environmental mycobacteria in Greek bottled table water.
- To evaluate the potential of mycobacteria as an indicator of hygienic quality.
Main Methods:
- 150 bottled water samples were analyzed for mycobacteria.
- Polymerase chain reaction-restriction enzyme analysis (PCR-REA) and biochemical methods were used for identification.
- Bacteriological fecal indicators were also assessed.
Main Results:
- Environmental mycobacteria were found in 23% (15.6%) of samples.
- Mycobacterium chelonae was the most prevalent species identified.
- No significant correlation was observed between mycobacteria and fecal indicators.
Conclusions:
- Bottled table water can harbor environmental mycobacteria.
- Mycobacteria detection may serve as a hygienic quality index for bottled water, particularly for vulnerable populations.
- Current fecal indicator tests may not reflect mycobacterial contamination.