ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE AMONG BACTERIA NEAR SEWAGE OUTFALLS IN BERMUDA

Antibiotic resistance among bacteria is a portentous global concern, which threatens the ability of medical professionals to successfully treat bacterial infections. In Bermuda, there is no wastewater treatment plant; therefore, about 4.3x106 L per day of untreated sewage is released into the ocean through two marine outfalls. Water samples were collected from 12 sample sites (outfalls, offshore sites, and onshore beach sites near the outfalls) over 4 sampling events between August and October, 2013. Water samples were analyzed for the presence of Escherichia coli, Enterococcus sp., and Staphylococcus aureus. Antibiotic susceptibility of each purified isolate was tested and classified using Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute standards. PCR analysis confirmed the presence of at least one methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) isolate. Documentation of antibiotic resistant bacteria in Bermudian waters supports the need for improved sewage treatment to ensure safe recreational use of these areas.