Microbial source tracking and antimicrobial resistance in one river system of a rural community in Bahia, Brazil / Rastreamento de fontes microbianas e resistência antimicrobiana em um sistema fluvial de uma comunidade rural da Bahia, Brasil

Use of antibiotics inevitably leads to antimicrobial resistance. Selection for resistance occurs primarily within the gut of humans and animals as well as in the environment through natural resistance and residual antibiotics in streams and soil. We evaluated antimicrobial resistance in Gram negative bacteria from a river system in a rural community in Bahia, Brazil. Water was collected from the Jiquiriçá and Brejões rivers and the piped water supply. Additionally, stools were collected from a random sample of residents, cows, pigs and horses near the river. The samples were screened for bacteria resistant to ciprofloxacin, cefotaxime, and meropenem and identified biochemically at the genus and species levels. Microbial source tracking demonstrated that ruminant and human fecal contamination increased as the rivers neared the village center and decreased after the last residence. Antibiotic bacteria were identified from all samples (n = 32). No bacteria were resistant to carbapenems, but the majority of the enterobacteria were resistant to ciprofloxacin, even though this class of antibiotics is not commonly used in food animals in this region. Considering these facts, together with the pattern of human fecal contamination, a human source was considered most likely for these resistant isolates.

O uso de antibióticos inevitavelmente leva à resistência antimicrobiana. A seleção para resistência antimicrobiana ocorre principalmente no intestino de seres humanos e animais, bem como no meio ambiente, através da resistência natural e resíduos de antibióticos nos esgotos e no solo. Avaliamos a resistência antimicrobiana em bactérias Gram-negativas de um sistema fluvial em uma comunidade rural da Bahia, Brasil. A água foi coletada nos rios Jiquiriçá e Brejões e no abastecimento de água encanada. Além disso, foram coletadas amostras randomizadas de fezes de moradores, vacas, porcos e cavalos próximos ao rio. As amostras foram triadas para bactérias resistentes à ciprofloxacina, cefotaxima e meropenem e identificadas bioquimicamente nos níveis de gênero e espécie. O rastreamento de fontes microbianas demonstrou que a contaminação fecal de ruminantes e humanos aumentou à medida que os rios se aproximavam do centro da vila e diminuía após a última residência. Bactérias resistentes a antibióticos foram identificadas em todas as amostras (n = 32). Nenhuma bactéria demonstrou ser resistente aos carbapenêmicos testados, contudo, foi encontrado enterobactérias resistentes à ciprofloxacina, ainda que essa classe de antibióticos não seja comumente usada na medicina veterinária dos animais dessa região. Considerando esses fatos, juntamente com o padrão de contaminação fecal avaliado, a fonte de contaminação humana foi considerada a mais provável na interação desses isolados resistentes.

Microbial source tracking and antimicrobial resistance in one river system of a rural community in Bahia, Brazil

Abstract Use of antibiotics inevitably leads to antimicrobial resistance. Selection for resistance occurs primarily within the gut of humans and animals as well as in the environment through natural resistance and residual antibiotics in streams and soil. We evaluated antimicrobial resistance in Gram negative bacteria from a river system in a rural community in Bahia, Brazil. Water was collected from the Jiquiriçá and Brejões rivers and the piped water supply. Additionally, stools were collected from a random sample of residents, cows, pigs and horses near the river. The samples were screened for bacteria resistant to ciprofloxacin, cefotaxime, and meropenem and identified biochemically at the genus and species levels. Microbial source tracking demonstrated that ruminant and human fecal contamination increased as the rivers neared the village center and decreased after the last residence. Antibiotic bacteria were identified from all samples (n = 32). No bacteria were resistant to carbapenems, but the majority of the enterobacteria were resistant to ciprofloxacin, even though this class of antibiotics is not commonly used in food animals in this region. Considering these facts, together with the pattern of human fecal contamination, a human source was considered most likely for these resistant isolates.

Resumo O uso de antibióticos inevitavelmente leva à resistência antimicrobiana. A seleção para resistência antimicrobiana ocorre principalmente no intestino de seres humanos e animais, bem como no meio ambiente, através da resistência natural e resíduos de antibióticos nos esgotos e no solo. Avaliamos a resistência antimicrobiana em bactérias Gram-negativas de um sistema fluvial em uma comunidade rural da Bahia, Brasil. A água foi coletada nos rios Jiquiriçá e Brejões e no abastecimento de água encanada. Além disso, foram coletadas amostras randomizadas de fezes de moradores, vacas, porcos e cavalos próximos ao rio. As amostras foram triadas para bactérias resistentes à ciprofloxacina, cefotaxima e meropenem e identificadas bioquimicamente nos níveis de gênero e espécie. O rastreamento de fontes microbianas demonstrou que a contaminação fecal de ruminantes e humanos aumentou à medida que os rios se aproximavam do centro da vila e diminuía após a última residência. Bactérias resistentes a antibióticos foram identificadas em todas as amostras (n = 32). Nenhuma bactéria demonstrou ser resistente aos carbapenêmicos testados, contudo, foi encontrado enterobactérias resistentes à ciprofloxacina, ainda que essa classe de antibióticos não seja comumente usada na medicina veterinária dos animais dessa região. Considerando esses fatos, juntamente com o padrão de contaminação fecal avaliado, a fonte de contaminação humana foi considerada a mais provável na interação desses isolados resistentes.

Água de drenagem ou esgoto sanitário? Uma análise do sistema de macrodrenagem em cidade de médio porte na Região Nordeste / Drainage water or sanitary sewage? An analysis of the macro-drainage system in a medium-sized city in the Northeast Region

RESUMO A concepção dos sistemas de drenagem de águas pluviais como separador absoluto é uma característica marcante na gestão das águas urbanas, no entanto não é o reflexo da realidade de tal sistema na maioria das cidades brasileiras, onde frequentemente esgotos e águas pluviais escoam pelos mesmos condutos. Diante disso, o objetivo do presente trabalho foi investigar as contribuições de contaminação fecal dos canais de drenagem afluentes ao Canal do Prado, pertencentes ao sistema de macrodrenagem de águas pluviais da cidade de Campina Grande, na Paraíba. Para a realização da pesquisa de campo, foram definidos sete pontos de monitoramento ao longo do canal e, como indicadores de contaminação fecal, coliformes termotolerantes, Escherichia coli e os ovos dos helmintos Ascaris lumbricoides, Taenia sp, Hymenolepis nana, Hymenolepis diminuta, Enterobius vermicularis, Ancilostomideo sp e Trichuris sp. Os resultados apontaram que ovos de Ascaris lumbricoides foram os que apresentaram maior frequência nos pontos de monitoramento, relacionados à maior descarga de esgotos sanitários. Tais descargas também foram verificadas por elevados valores médios de coliformes termotolerantes que atingiram até 1,6 x 107 UFC.100 mL-1, valor típico de esgoto sanitário. Escherichia coli ocorreu em mais de 90% das amostras coletadas em todos os pontos de monitoramento.

ABSTRACT The design of rainwater drainage systems as an absolute separator is a significant feature in urban water management, however, this is not a reflection of the reality of such a system in most Brazilian cities, where sewage and rainwater often run along the same path. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate contributions of fecal contamination from tributary drainage channels to Canal do Prado, belonging to the urban macro-drainage system of rainwater in the city of Campina Grande, Paraíba State. For the fieldwork, seven monitoring points were set along the channel object of this study, determining thermotolerant coliforms, Escherichia coli, and helminth eggs of Ascaris lumbricoides, Taenia sp, Hymenolepis nana, Hymenolepis diminuta, Enterobius vermicularis, and Trichuris sp, as fecal contamination indicators. The results pointed out that eggs of Ascaris lumbricoides were those with the highest frequency in monitoring points, being this related to the increased discharge of sewage. Such discharges were also verified by high mean values of thermotolerant coliforms that reached up to 1.6 x 107 CFU.100 mL-1, typical value of domestic sewage. Escherichia coli was present in over 90% of all samples collected from monitoring points.

Antimicrobial-resistant enterobacteria in surface waters with fecal contamination from urban and rural communities

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Inadequate wastewater treatment and fecal contamination have a strong environmental impact on antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study evaluated the profile of AMR enterobacteria and fecal contamination from four surface waters: Jiquiriça-Brejões River and Cabrito, Tororó, and Abaeté Lagoons. METHODS: We analyzed AMR β-lactamase genes using the polymerase chain reaction method and fecal contamination using Coliscan®. RESULTS: We found high levels of fecal contamination, β-lactamase producers, and AMR genes (blaOXA-48, blaSPM, and blaVIM) in all waterbodies. CONCLUSIONS: Poor sanitation evidenced by fecal contamination and human activities around these surface waters contributed to the distribution and increase in AMR enterobacteria.

Escherichia coli is not a suitable fecal indicator to assess water fecal contamination by otters / Escherichia coli não é um indicador adequado para avaliar a contaminação fecal da água por lontras

Abstract The detection of pathogenic microorganisms in aquatic environments is extremely relevant in terms of public health. As these laboratorial methodologies are usually difficult, expensive and time-consuming, they are frequently replaced by the assessment of fecal indicator bacteria, such as Escherichia coli. This study aimed to assess the presence of E. coli in fecal samples from Neotropical otters, to evaluate its potential as fecal indicator to be applied to the determination of water microbiological quality in areas where otters' populations are high. Twenty-six otter fecal samples, collected in Alto Paranapanema river basin, São Paulo State, Brazil, were analyzed for the presence of E. coli, using conventional bacteriological methods. Only 8 scat samples (30%) were E. coli positive, indicating that this microorganism is not a suitable fecal indicator to assess water fecal contamination by Neotropical otters, and should not be used to infer the presence of otter related pathogens in waters.

Resumo A detecção de microrganismos patogênicos em ambientes aquáticos é extremamente importante em termos de saúde pública. Como estas metodologias laboratoriais são geralmente difíceis de realizar, dispendiosas e demoradas, são frequentemente substituídas pela avaliação de bactérias indicadoras de contaminação fecal, tais como Escherichia coli. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a presença de E. coli em amostras fecais de lontras Neotropicais, para avaliar o seu potencial como indicador fecal e poder ser aplicado para a determinação da qualidade microbiológica da água em áreas onde as populações de lontras são numerosas. Vinte e seis amostras de fezes de lontra, coletadas na bacia do Alto Paranapanema, Estado de São Paulo, Brasil, foram analisadas quanto à presença de E. coli, utilizando métodos bacteriológicos convencionais. Apenas oito amostras de fezes (30%) se revelaram positivas para E. coli, indicando que este microrganismo não é um indicador fecal adequado para avaliar a contaminação fecal da água por lontras Neotropicais, e não deve ser usada para inferir a presença de agentes patogênicos relacionados com lontra em águas.

Escherichia coli is not a suitable fecal indicator to assess water fecal contamination by otters

Abstract The detection of pathogenic microorganisms in aquatic environments is extremely relevant in terms of public health. As these laboratorial methodologies are usually difficult, expensive and time-consuming, they are frequently replaced by the assessment of fecal indicator bacteria, such as Escherichia coli. This study aimed to assess the presence of E. coli in fecal samples from Neotropical otters, to evaluate its potential as fecal indicator to be applied to the determination of water microbiological quality in areas where otters populations are high. Twenty-six otter fecal samples, collected in Alto Paranapanema river basin, São Paulo State, Brazil, were analyzed for the presence of E. coli, using conventional bacteriological methods. Only 8 scat samples (30%) were E. coli positive, indicating that this microorganism is not a suitable fecal indicator to assess water fecal contamination by Neotropical otters, and should not be used to infer the presence of otter related pathogens in waters.

Resumo A detecção de microrganismos patogênicos em ambientes aquáticos é extremamente importante em termos de saúde pública. Como estas metodologias laboratoriais são geralmente difíceis de realizar, dispendiosas e demoradas, são frequentemente substituídas pela avaliação de bactérias indicadoras de contaminação fecal, tais como Escherichia coli. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a presença de E. coli em amostras fecais de lontras Neotropicais, para avaliar o seu potencial como indicador fecal e poder ser aplicado para a determinação da qualidade microbiológica da água em áreas onde as populações de lontras são numerosas. Vinte e seis amostras de fezes de lontra, coletadas na bacia do Alto Paranapanema, Estado de São Paulo, Brasil, foram analisadas quanto à presença de E. coli, utilizando métodos bacteriológicos convencionais. Apenas oito amostras de fezes (30%) se revelaram positivas para E. coli, indicando que este microrganismo não é um indicador fecal adequado para avaliar a contaminação fecal da água por lontras Neotropicais, e não deve ser usada para inferir a presença de agentes patogênicos relacionados com lontra em águas.

Evaluación del impacto antrópico sobre la calidad del agua del arroyo Las Piedras, Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina / Assessment of anthropogenic impact on water quality of the stream Las Piedras, Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina / Avaliação do impacto antropogénico na qualidade da água do riacho Las Piedras, Quilmes, Buenos Aires, Argentina

El marcado deterioro de los cuerpos de agua superficiales hace prioritaria su evaluación para su adecuada gestión, incluyendo acciones de control y mitigación del nivel de contaminación y el riesgo sanitario asociado. Si bien cada curso de agua posee características y problemáticas naturales y ambientales específicas, los arroyos situados sobre el conurbano bonaerense comparten algunas características comunes que se presentan en este estudio. A tal efecto, se plantea determinar y evaluar los factores antrópicos que afectan directa o indirectamente la calidad del agua del arroyo Las Piedras en el partido de Quilmes, mediante la caracterización físico-química y microbiológica de sus aguas, además de la aplicación de índices de calidad (ICA) y de contaminación (ICOMO). Mediante el uso de estas herramientas se manifestó un potencial y grave problema de degradación del arroyo y su entorno, debido principalmente a la carencia de servicios de saneamiento, al vertido de aguas residuales sin tratamiento previo o inadecuado que generan especialmente contaminación fecal de sus aguas, y a basurales y quemazones en sus márgenes, creando así sitios puntuales de contaminación y diseminación de plagas, potenciales focos infecciosos.

The strong deterioration of surface water makes its assessment priority for proper management, including actions to control and mitigate the level of contamination and associated health risks. While each watercourse has natural characteristics and specific environmental issues, streams located on the Buenos Aires metropolitan area share some common characteristics presented in this study. To this end it is proposed to determine and evaluate the human factors that directly or indirectly affect the water quality of the river Las Piedras in Quilmes, by physico-chemical and microbiological characteristics of the water in addition to the application of quality indices (ICA) and pollution (ICOMO). By using these tools a potential and serious problem degradation of the stream and its surroundings appeared, mainly due to lack of sanitation, the discharge of wastewater without prior or inadequate treatment especially generating fecal contamination of the water, and garbage dumps and burnings at its margins, creating specific sites of contamination and spread of pests, potential infectious foci.

A acentuada deterioração dos corpos de água superficiais torna prioritária sua avaliação para uma gestão adequada, incluindo ações para controlar e mitigar o nível de contaminação e o risco sanitário associado. Embora cada curso de água tenha características e problemáticas naturais e ambientais específicas, arroios localizados na área metropolitana da província de Buenos Aires compartilham algumas características comuns apresentadas neste trabalho. Para tal, propõe-se determinar e avaliar os fatores antrópicos que afetam direta ou indiretamente a qualidade da água do arroio Las Piedras, em Quilmes, através da caracterização físico-química e microbiológica das suas águas, além da aplicação de índices de qualidade (ICA) e de contaminação (ICOMO). Com a utilização destas ferramentas, um potencial e grave problema de degradação do arroio e de seu ambiente surgiu, principalmente causado pela falta de serviços de saneamento, pela descarga de águas residuais sem tratamento prévio ou inadequado, gerando especialmente contaminação fecal de suas águas, e pelos depósitos de lixo e queimadas em suas margens, criando assim lugares específicos de contaminação e disseminação de pragas, potenciais focos infecciosos.

Role of goat in transmission of schistosomiasis japonica III Environmental con-tamination by goat feces and prediction of environments at high risk of S. japonicum in-fection / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

Objective To quantitatively estimate the range and area of environmental contamination by the feces of Schistoso?ma japonicum?infected that were freely grazed,so as to provide the theoretical evidence for the scientific assessment of the role of the freely grazed goat in the transmission of schistosomiasis japonica and development of control strategy. Methods All the fecal samples excreted by the infected goat at daytime(12 h)were collected by using a self?made goat fecal collector,weighed and counted. The quantity and dispersal of the feces excreted by the freely grazed goat at daytime under a natural condition were investigated,and the walking route and speed of the freely grazed goat at daytime were recorded with a multifunction GPS data logger. The maximum range and area of the environment contaminated by the feces of the freely grazed goat at daytime were esti?mated,and the maximum range and area of the Oncomelania hupensis snails that may be infected by the schistosome miracidium released from the eggs in the fecal samples of the freely graze goat at daytime were calculated. Results During the walking along the marshland at daytime(12 h),the quantity of the feces execrated by the freely grazed infected goat was(232.8 ± 39.8) g per goat,and the fecal samples were composed of(819.2 ± 152.1)pellets. The goat had a mean walking speed of(0.522 7 ± 0.099 7)km/h,and the longest distance,largest radius and largest range of walking activity were(6.272 4 ± 1.195 8)km, 3.136 2 km and(3 191.113 0 ± 1 189.709 4)hm2at daytime,respectively. The area of the snails that may be infected by the mi?racidium released from the eggs in the fecal samples of the freely graze goat(range of key regions for infected snails detection and control)at daytime was estimated to be(3 210.717 5 ± 1 190.907 3)hm2. Conclusions The intensity of environmental contamination by the eggs in the fecal samples of the freely grazed goat is linked to the number of infected goat. The contamina?tion range caused by the feces of the freely grazed goat with fixed fences is relatively stably kept within the walking range at day?time,and the range and area of goat fecal contamination is associated with the number of households that breed goat and the dis?tribution of goat fence. The area of the snails that may be infected by the miracidium released from the eggs in the fecal samples of the freely graze goat is larger than the area of setting contaminated by the eggs in the goat feces ,indicating that the range of in?fected snail examination and control is larger than the range of goat feces detected.

Caffeine as an indicator of human fecal contamination in the Sinos River: a preliminary study / Cafeína como um indicador de contaminação fecal humana no rio dos Sinos: um estudo preliminar

The preservation of hydric resources is directly related to fecal contamination monitoring, in order to allow the development of strategies for the management of polluting sources. In the present study, twenty-five water samples from six water public supply collection sites were used for the evaluation of the presence of caffeine, total and fecal coliforms. Caffeine was detected in all samples, with concentrations ranging from 0.15 ng mL^–1 to 16.72 ng mL^–1. Total coliforms were detected in all samples, with concentrations in the range of 52 NMP/100 mL to higher than 24196 NMP/100 mL, whether the concentration range for fecal coliforms was in the range of below 1 NMP/100 mL to 7800 NMP/100 mL. No significant correlation was found between total coliforms and caffeine concentrations (rs = 0.35, p = 0.09). However, a moderate correlation between fecal coliforms and caffeine concentrations was found (rs = 0.412, p <0.05), probably indicating a human source for these bacteria. Caffeine determination in water may be a useful strategy to evaluate water contamination by human fecal waste.

A preservação dos recursos hídricos está diretamente relacionada ao monitoramento da contaminação fecal, no intuito de possibilitar o desenvolvimento de estratégias apropriadas para a gestão das fontes poluidoras. No presente estudo, vinte e cinco amostras de água de seis pontos de captação de água para abastecimento público foram utilizadas para análise da presença de cafeína, de coliformes totais e de coliformes termotolerantes. Cafeína foi detectada em todas as amostras coletadas nos diferentes locais de amostragem, com intervalo de concentração entre 0,15 ng mL^–1 e 16,72 ng mL^–1. Coliformes totais foram detectados em todas as amostras analisadas, com concentrações variando de 52 NMP/100 mL a concentrações maiores que 24196 NMP/100 mL, enquanto a faixa de variação de concentração de coliformes termotolerantes variou de menos de 1 NMP/100 mL a 7800 NMP/100 mL. Não foi verificada correlação significativa entre coliformes totais e cafeína (rs = 0.35, p = 0.09), no entanto foi observada correlação moderada entre coliformes termotolerantes e cafeína (rs = 0.412, p <0.05), o que pode indicar uma provável fonte humana destas bactérias. A determinação de cafeína em amostras de água pode ser uma ferramenta útil para avaliar a contaminação com resíduos fecais humanos.

Caffeine as an indicator of human fecal contamination in the Sinos River: a preliminary study

p>The preservation of hydric resources is directly related to fecal contamination monitoring, in order to allow the development of strategies for the management of polluting sources. In the present study, twenty-five water samples from six water public supply collection sites were used for the evaluation of the presence of caffeine, total and fecal coliforms. Caffeine was detected in all samples, with concentrations ranging from 0.15 ng mL sup>1 /sup> to 16.72 ng mL sup>1 /sup>. Total coliforms were detected in all samples, with concentrations in the range of 52 NMP/100 mL to higher than 24196 NMP/100 mL, whether the concentration range for fecal coliforms was in the range of below 1 NMP/100 mL to 7800 NMP/100 mL. No significant correlation was found between total coliforms and caffeine concentrations (rs = 0.35, p = 0.09). However, a moderate correlation between fecal coliforms and caffeine concentrations was found (rs = 0.412, p 0.05), probably indicating a human source for these bacteria. Caffeine determination in water may be a useful strategy to evaluate water contamination by human fecal waste. /p>

p>A preservação dos recursos hídricos está diretamente relacionada ao monitoramento da contaminação fecal, no intuito de possibilitar o desenvolvimento de estratégias apropriadas para a gestão das fontes poluidoras. No presente estudo, vinte e cinco amostras de água de seis pontos de captação de água para abastecimento público foram utilizadas para análise da presença de cafeína, de coliformes totais e de coliformes termotolerantes. Cafeína foi detectada em todas as amostras coletadas nos diferentes locais de amostragem, com intervalo de concentração entre 0,15 ng mL sup>1 /sup> e 16,72 ng mL sup>1 /sup>. Coliformes totais foram detectados em todas as amostras analisadas, com concentrações variando de 52 NMP/100 mL a concentrações maiores que 24196 NMP/100 mL, enquanto a faixa de variação de concentração de coliformes termotolerantes variou de menos de 1 NMP/100 mL a 7800 NMP/100 mL. Não foi verificada correlação significativa entre coliformes totais e cafeína (rs = 0.35, p = 0.09), no entanto foi observada correlação moderada entre coliformes termotolerantes e cafeína (rs = 0.412, p 0.05), o que pode indicar uma provável fonte humana destas bactérias. A determinação de cafeína em amostras de água pode ser uma ferramenta útil para avaliar a contaminação com resíduos fecais humanos. /p>

Ocorrência de Escherichia coli em meias carcaças de bovinos abatidos em estabelecimento habilitado para exportação / Occurrence of Escherichia coli on beef carcass at an exporter slaughterhouse

A análise de Escherichia coli, considerada bactéria indicadora de contaminação fecal, é utilizada na verificação do controle de processos de abate. Porém, poucos trabalhos foram publicados acerca da ocorrência desse micro-organismo nas indústrias de abate brasileiras. Assim, o presente estudo determinou a ocorrência de E. coli genérica em carcaças bovinas em um estabelecimento sob inspeção federal, habilitado à exportação, identificando as possíveis variações no ano de 2010. Foram coletadas 1111 amostras de suabe de superfície de meias carcaças bovinas e analisadas pela metodologia Petrifilm™. A ocorrência encontrada foi de 4,4% (IC95%=3,3%; 5,7%), com uma média de contagem de 4,08UFC cm-2, não sendo significativamente afetada pelas estações de seca e chuva. As maiores ocorrências foram observadas nos meses de setembro (8,7%) e outubro (16,7%), no qual também foi detectada a maior média de contagem (14,06UFC cm-2). A diferença nos valores observada nesses períodos pode estar relacionada com o sistema de criação dos animais. A ocorrência foi significativamente maior no primeiro turno de abate (6,2%), em comparação com o segundo (1,6%), indicando uma possível relação entre a presença do micro-organismo e a realização de procedimentos operacionais. Interpretando-se os resultados encontrados, conclui-se que há necessidade da determinação de um perfil para a ocorrência de E. coli genérica em cada estabelecimento, considerando os fatores que a alteram, para orientar e tornar mais efetivas as medidas preventivas e corretivas de controle dos processos de abate e reduzir a contaminação microbiana das carcaças.

Escherichia coli testing are used to verify slaughter process control and it is regarded as an indicator of fecal contamination. However, there are few reports about E. coli occurrence in Brazilian slaughter establishments. The present study evaluated the occurrence of generic E. coli in 1111 swab samples of beef carcasses collected at an exporter slaughterhouse, under federal inspection, in different periods of 2010 and analyzed by Petrifilm™ method. E. coli was detected on 4.4% of carcasses (95% CI, 3.3% to 5.7%) and its occurrence was not significantly affected by the dry or rainy season. The mean of generic E. coli recovered from sampled cattle carcasses was 4.08CFU cm-2. The higher incidence was observed in September (8.7%) and October (16.7%); in October the E. coli mean attained the highest value (14.06CFU cm-2). The observed increase may have been related to feedlot systems. The E. coli isolation occurred more frequently in the first shift (6.2%) than in the second shift (1.6%), indicating a possible relationship with the operating procedures. The results obtained in this study showed that an occurrence profile of generic E. coli should be determined in each establishment to guide and improve preventive measures and corrective actions of slaughter process control and reduce microbiological contamination on carcasses.

Epidemiological Characteristics of the First Water-Borne Outbreak of Cryptosporidiosis in Seoul, Korea

The first case of human cryptosporidiosis was reported in Korea in 1995; however, an outbreak of Cryptosporidium has not been reported in Korea until now. This paper describes the first outbreak of cryptosporidiosis in Korea. On May 24, 2012, a local public health center filed a report on 126 residents with gastrointestinal symptoms in an old apartment complex in Seoul. Epidemiological investigations were implemented on 125 of the 126 patients. The patients were reported continuously over a period of 22 days. Diarrhea was the most common clinical symptom, and lasted for 5 days on average. The tap water was the only common exposure of the patients. During the environmental investigation it was discovered that the water and septic tanks were situated closely and that the waste water pipes were corroded where they passed over the water pipes. Cryptosporidium parvum was detected in 3 of the 7 stool specimens by PCR-RFLP. A number of Cryptosporidium oocysts were also detected in the water specimens from the water tank. In conclusion, Cryptosporidium parvum was the key causal pathogen of this outbreak. It is presumed that the tap water was contaminated by a sewage leak from the aged pipelines.

Evaluación microbiológica de alimentos listos para consumo procesados por pequeñas industrias costarricenses / Microbiological evaluation of ready-to-eat foods manufactured by small Costa Rican industries

Los alimentos listos para su consumo (ALC) son alimentos procesados que pueden consumirse sin ningún tratamiento térmico adicional, lo que ha incrementado su popularidad. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la inocuidad y calidad microbiológica de 90 ALC producidos por pequeñas industrias costarricenses, con el fin de evaluar el riesgo para la salud pública. Se analizaron 26 encurtidos, 18 aderezos, 18 ensaladas, 12 dulces en conserva y 16 antipastos. A cada muestra se le determinó el pH y la presencia por cultivo de indicadores de calidad microbiológica y de patógenos (Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, Clostridium perfringens, C. botulinum y Bacillus cereus); además, se investigó por PCR la presencia de genes que codifican por las toxinas de C. botulinum y C. perfringens. Un 37% de las muestras tuvo un nivel de acidez que podría permitir la proliferación de patógenos (pH >4.5). En general, los indicadores de vida útil fueron aceptables, siempre y cuando los ALC se mantengan en condiciones de temperatura y humedad adecuadas. Un 64% de las muestras presentó valores de coliformes totales que sugieren mala higiene en su elaboración (NMP/g >1000), que se confirma con el hallazgo de coliformes fecales en el 56% y que las hace inaceptables para el consumo humano. Todos los cultivos para patógenos fueron negativos, excepto cuatro para B. cereus. No se detectaron toxinas de C. botulinum y solo una muestra fue positiva para el PCR de C. perfringens. Este estudio evidencia una importante contaminación fecal en ALC, una situación indeseable y totalmente prevenible si se practican técnicas adecuadas de manejo de alimentos, de higiene y se presta mayor atención a los puntos críticos de control.

Ready-to-eat (RTE) foods are processed foodstuffs which have gained popularity in recent times because they can be ingested without further thermic treatments. In this work, the microbiological quality and safety of 90 samples of RTE foods manufactured by small Costa Rican industries was determined to evaluate whether they represent a Public Health risk. Twenty-six samples of pickled vegetables, 18 dips, 18 salads, and 12 sweet treats were studied. Each sample was analyzed with regard to its pH, the presence of culturable microbiological quality indicators and recognized foodborne pathogens (Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, Clostridium perfringens, C. botulinum, and Bacillus cereus) Selected genes encoding toxins of C. botulinum and C. perfringens were screened by PCR. Thirty-seven percent of the samples had a level of acidity that could allow the growth and proliferation of bacterial pathogens (pH >4.5). The shelf-life indicators were acceptable but only if the RTE foods are kept at adequate conditions of temperature and humidity. Sixty-four percent of the RTE foods had total coliforms values that evidence inadequate hygiene practices during its elaboration (MPN/g >1000). This result was confirmed by the finding of fecal coliforms in 56 % of the samples, which, by the way, are inacceptable for human consumption. All cultures for pathogens were negative, except for 4 samples that contained B. cereus. Toxins of C. botulinum were not detected and one single sample was positive for the PCR for C. perfringens. The elevated degree of fecal contamination detected in the RTE could be prevented by means of good manufacturing practices, better hygiene measures and a deeper attention to critical control points.

La higiene en la comercialización de moluscos desbullados en el estado Nueva Esparta, Venezuela, período 1992-2007 / Hygiene in marketing shellfish shucked in Nueva Esparta state, Venezuela, period 1992 to 2007

Los moluscos en el Edo. Nueva Esparta (Venezuela) se co mer - cializan principalmente desbullados (sin concha), en mercados populares y en vías públicas. El presente trabajo recopila información sobre análisis realizados durante los años 1992 a 2007 a 161 muestras de: Ostra perla (Pincta da im bricata Roding, 1798), pepitona (Arca zebra Swain son, 1833), mejillón (Perna perna Linnaeus, 1758), vieiras (Amu sium papyraceum Gabb, 1873), guacuco (Tivela mactroides Born, 1778), chipi-chipi (Donax spp Linnaeus, 1758 y 1767) y caracoles: Vaquita (Strom bus pugilis Linné, 1758), Longo (Me lon gena melongena Linnaeus, 1758) entre otros. Para conocer los porcentajes de incumplimiento de los requisitos bacteriológicos, se realizaron determinaciones (NMP/100 g) de coliformes fecales y E. coli y recuentos de aerobios mesófilos (UFC/g) según normas COVENIN. También se evaluó el pH y el olor. En promedio, la prueba con mayor porcentaje de in cumplimiento fue coliformes fecales (88,1%), seguida de E. coli (73,4%), recuentos de aerobios mesófilos (66,9%) y presencia de olores extraños (28,1%). Las causas parecen ser la forma artesanal de su manipulación, la utilización de agua no potable y el mantenimiento de los moluscos a temperatura ambiente (aproximadamente 26°C) después de la cocción y separación de la concha y durante la comercialización. Se encontraron relaciones positivas significativas entre los valores de aerobios mesófilos y los de coliformes fecales y E. coli (r = 0,78 y 0,56; P < 0,05); también entre los coliformes fecales y E. coli (r = 0,64, P < 0,05), indicando que las bacterias presentes son de origen fecal. Se concluye que estos alimentos representaron un riesgo potencial para la salud pública y se recomienda que pescadores y vendedores reciban instrucciones para corregir las prácticas indebidas y que compradores los laven y cocinen antes de consumirlos.

Shellfish in Nueva Esparta state (Venezuela) are commercialized mainly shucked, in popular markets and by vendors along roadsides. This study compiles information about the results of analysis made during the years 1992 to 2007 to 161 samples of ostra perla (Pinctada imbricata Roding, 1798), pepitona (Arca zebra Swainson, 1833), mejillón (Perna perna Linnaeus, 1758), vieiras (Amusium papyraceum Gabb, 1873), guacuco (Tivela mactroides Born, 1778), chipi-chipi (Donax spp Lin - naeus, 1758 y 1767) and caracoles: Vaquita (Strombus pugilis Lin né, 1758), Longo (Melongena melongena Linnaeus, 1758), among other shellfish. In order to find out the percentage of noncompliance with the recommended bacteriological standards, fecal coliforms and E. coli (MPN/100 g) and total aerobic plate count (FCU/g) were evaluated using COVENIN norms. Also pH and odor were studied. Samples most unfit were fecal coliforms (88.1%), followed by E. coli (73.4%), total aerobic plate counts (66.9%) and abnormal odors (28.1%). The causes for this seem to be, among others, handling practices, use of non potable water and storing of shellfish at room temperature (26.0 °C mean) after cooking, shucked and during marketing. It was observed significant positive relations between total plate counts and fecal coliforms and E. coli (r = 0.78 y 0.56; P < 0.05); also between fecal coliforms and E. coli (r = 0.64, P < 0.05) this suggest that bacteria have a fecal source. In conclusion, these foods represented a significant and potential public health risk. It is recommended that fishermen and vendors receive instruction for correct handling practices, and that buyers wash and cook the products before they are consumed.

Coliformes termttolerantes en aguas de las poblciones costeras y palafíticas dde la ciénaga grande de santa marta, Cllombia / Fecals Coliforms in Waters of Coastal and Palafiticos Populations of Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta, Colombia

La Ciénaga Grande de Santa Marta es el sistema lagunar costero más grande e importante de Colombia y el más extenso del Caribe. En su territorio se alojan siete poblaciones carentes de un sistema de saneamiento básico adecuado, que vierten sus desechos sin ningún tipo de tratamiento directamente a la ciénaga. Teniendo en cuenta la importancia ambiental de este cuerpo de agua y con el objeto de conocer su calidad sanitaria se determinaron las concentraciones de Coliformes termotolerantes en aguas adyacentes de dos poblaciones costeras (Tasajera e isla del Rosario) y tres palafiticas (Buenavista, Nueva Venecia y Trojas de Cataca) durante el periodo 2004-2007. Adicionalmente, se realizaron mediciones de pH, temperatura, salinidad y oxígeno disuelto en cada sitio de muestreo. Las mayores concentraciones de Coliformes se encontraron en el palafito Trojas de Cataca, en la época seca mayor de cada año (7.800-9.000 NMP/ 100 mL) y los menores niveles en la estación Buenavista (2-1.100 NMP/100mL). El patrón de comportamiento de las densidades de Coliformes en las poblaciones costeras fue similar en el tiempo y no se observó ninguna relación directa entre las variables fisicoquímicas y el grupo Coliformes. Dado lo observado, se considera importante vigilar la calidad del agua en el estuario, teniendo en cuenta que constituye una fuente potencial de riesgo para el desarrollo de las actividades económicas de la zona y para la salud de los pobladores.

The coastal lagoon system most important and biggest of Colombia and the largest in the Caribbean is the Cienaga Grande of Santa Marta. In their territory, seven populations lacking of an appropriate sanitation system, that pour their waste directly without any treatment to the cienaga. Keeping in mind the importance of this body of water and in order to know their sanitary quality the concentrations of thermotolerant coliforms were determined in two coastal (Tasajera and Isla del Rosario) and three palafitics populations (Buenavista, Nueva Venecia and Trojas de Cataca) during the period 2004-2007. Additionally, pH, temperature, salinity and oxygen measurements were carried out in each station. The highest coliforms concentrations were found in Trojas de Cataca, in the dry season more each year (7,800-9,000 MPN/100ml) and the lowest level in Buenavista station (2-1,100 MPN/100mL). The behavior pattern of Coliform densities in coastal populations was similar in the time and there was no direct relationship between physicochemical variables and Coliform group. It is important take care and watch over the estuary quality, taking into account that constitutes a potential risk source for economic activities development of the area and for the residents health.