Distribution and Diversity of Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria in Selected Agro-Industrial Pollution in Njoro River, Nakuru, Kenya

Abstract

Many in-stream activities occur in River Njoro. Consequently, many pharmaceuticals used in farms and hospitals and antibiotic-resistant microbes end up in the River through runoff and sewage. Presence of antibiotic resistance exposes humans and animals to contamination during in-stream activities. This study determined bacteria resistant to both medical and veterinary antibiotics in the catchment. Residual antibiotics and physical chemical conditions and indicators of feacal pollution were investigated. The bacteria resistant to five antibiotics studied varied significantly (P<0.05). Turkana site had highest resistors to ampicillin, tetracycline and streptomycin, while Njoro Canning Factory had highest resistors to gentamycin and Chloramphenical. Indicators of faecal pollution were found in all sites including Sigotik with 413.33±15.28 E.coli per 100 ml of water. Physical chemical measurements showed site differences. The Njoro Canning Factory BOD was 6.99±0.20 mg L-1, whereas Sigotik BOD was 1.28±0.13 mg L-1. Presumptive positive Salmonella, V. cholera and V. parahaemolyticus species were found in Turkana and Ngata sites. There is cause for alarm due to the high numbers of antibiotic resistant bacteria in River Njoro. Proper treatment of the River water before use is recommended, or alternative safe water sources for these communities should be found.