Abstract
Bacterial impairment of freshwater systems is a commonly studied global problem. However, studies on the relative distribution of bacterial pathogens in different impaired aquatic systems have been limited. Frequently, impaired freshwater systems are classified by the presence of fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) and the identification of sources of fecal contamination through microbial source tracking. In this study, we assessed the relative abundance of DNA sequences related to potential human bacterial pathogens along with human fecal indicator bacteria in three impaired watersheds. These watersheds consistently showed a high abundance of FIB for the past several years. Using Illumina paired-end DNA sequencing of 16S rRNA gene amplicons, we observed variation in the relative distribution of DNA sequences related to Legionellaceae, Enterobacteriaceae and Bacteroidaceae families across different sites. We identified potential hotspots sites in these impaired water systems, which showed a relatively high abundance of pathogen-related DNA sequences. This study demonstrates the significance of Next-Gen DNA sequencing for the initial screening of waterborne pathogens and the identification of high-risk sites for preferential remediation efforts in impaired water systems. Secondly, the frequent temporal monitoring of specifically identified pathogens that are in high abundance in a watershed can help in the accurate prediction and prevention of disease outbreaks.
Highlights
Bacterial contamination of drinking and recreational water is a major environmental health concern [1,2]
We extracted all classified sequences related to Legionellaceae and Enterobacteriaceae families containing potential waterborne pathogens for detailed phylogenetic analysis
Using Next-Gen DNA sequencing, we identified three potential high health-risk sites (PR_102, PC_Cat and SEQ spring) that displayed a relatively high abundance of sequences related to Legionellaceae and Enterobacteriaceae families that contained known human pathogenic species
Summary
Bacterial contamination of drinking and recreational water is a major environmental health concern [1,2]. According to the World Health Organization [3], every year waterborne diseases cause more than 1.5 million human deaths worldwide. In the United States, every year 75,000 deaths and hospitalizations are attributed to waterborne bacterial pathogens [5]. Bacterial pathogens, such as Salmonella, Shigella and pathogenic E. coli from human or animal fecal material can enter drinking and recreational water resources [6]. In addition to fecal pathogens, other pathogens can persist in water and cause disease under optimal growth conditions [9]. This highlights the need for continuous monitoring of the water systems for potential pathogens
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
