Occurrence and pathogenicity of escherichia coli serotypes from processed water in Gwagwalada, FCT, Nigeria

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Original Article

Author Details : Mailafia Samuel, Emelogu Chukwudi, Mohammed Balarabe Rabiu

Volume : 2, Issue : 4, Year : 2016

Article Page : 136-141

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Abstract

Escherichia coli (E. coli) are important commensal bacteria that occur in a variety of sources, including processed water. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence and pathogenicity potentialsof E. coli serotypes predominating processed water vended in Gwagwalada metropolis. A total of 240 samples consisting of 60 bottled water, 150 sachet water and 30 tap water were randomly sampled bi-monthly for six month period. The samples were analyzed biochemically for the presence of E. coli isolates. The overall prevalence rate recorded was 5.0%. Bottled and sachet water samples had zero prevalence rates.  Serotyping was conducted and the isolates were grouped into 5different serotypes consisting of O86, O44, O103: H2, O113 and O26: H11.Pathogenicity studies using Lethal dose assay (LD₅₀) was conducted on an isolate and the titre was 10^-3µl/ml. Virulence factors were determined for all the isolates and the results revealed that 25.0% of the isolates produced verotoxins. Haemolysin production was indicated in14.7% isolates, while cell surface hydrophobicity was found in 50.0%. Serum resistance was 33.3% and gelatinase production was 33.3%. Our results clearly demonstrated that the E.coli serotypes isolated from tap water in our environment have high pathogenic potentials. It is therefore suggested thatrampant public health awareness campaign on the use and consumption of tap water needs to be instituted in our communities. Moreover water distribution systems in Gwagwalada needs public health intervention from Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) water board.

Keywords: Escherichia coli, Pathogenicity, Verotoxins, Haemolysin, Cell Surface hydrophobicity, Gelatinase

How to cite : Samuel M, Chukwudi E, Rabiu M B, Occurrence and pathogenicity of escherichia coli serotypes from processed water in Gwagwalada, FCT, Nigeria. IP Int J Med Microbiol Trop Dis 2016;2(4):136-141

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