Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria in Water Near Swine Farms
Author Information
Author(s): Amy R. Sapkota, Frank C. Curriero, Kristen E. Gibson, Kellogg J. Schwab
Primary Institution: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Hypothesis
Does the use of antibiotics in swine feed lead to higher levels of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in nearby water sources?
Conclusion
Water sources down gradient from a swine facility have significantly higher levels of fecal indicators and antibiotic-resistant enterococci compared to up-gradient sources.
Supporting Evidence
- Median concentrations of Enterococcus spp. were 17-fold higher in down-gradient surface waters.
- Higher percentages of antibiotic-resistant Enterococcus spp. were found in down-gradient water samples.
- The study highlights the public health risks associated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria in water.
Takeaway
This study found that water near pig farms has more germs that resist antibiotics, which can be bad for our health.
Methodology
Surface water and groundwater samples were collected and tested for fecal indicators and antibiotic resistance from 2002 to 2004.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and lacked specific antibiotic usage data from the swine grower.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.02 for erythromycin resistance
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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