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Drinking water quality and antibiotic resistance of E. coli and Salmonella spp. from different sources in Gweru urban, Zimbabwe

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Abstract

The study focused on assessing drinking water quality from different sources in Gweru urban. Seventy six samples were collected from 6 different locations and analysed for physicochemical parameters and microbial quality. Bacteria isolates were identified using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry and antibiotic susceptibility was determined for 4 isolates that had been identified as Escherichia coli (2) and Salmonella spp. (2). Although most samples were within World Health Organisation limits for most parameters, none met coliform limits. pH ranged between 6.2 and 6.9. Salmonella prevalence was 2%. Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. isolates were resistant to at least three antibiotics. The study showed inconsistent water quality across the city and contamination in alternative water sources.

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Funding

This work is based on the research supported in part by the National Research Foundation (NRF) of South Africa (grant-specific unique reference number (UID) 74426).

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  1. Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Midlands State University, P. Bag 9055, Gweru, Zimbabwe

    Desmond Tichaona Mugadza, Sibusisiwe Isabel Nduku,  Edlyn Gweme, Sherpherd Manhokwe, Patience Marume, Amiel Mugari, Charles Magogo & Talknice Zvamaziva Jombo

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  1. Desmond Tichaona Mugadza
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  2. Sibusisiwe Isabel Nduku
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Correspondence to Desmond Tichaona Mugadza.

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Mugadza, D., Nduku, S.I., Gweme, . et al. Drinking water quality and antibiotic resistance of E. coli and Salmonella spp. from different sources in Gweru urban, Zimbabwe. Environ Monit Assess 193, 546 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10661-021-09322-5

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