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| Image created by Dr. Michael J. Miller |
Irish-based researchers have developed a new device for on-the-spot testing of water quality to detect one of the most dangerous types of bacteria.
University of Galway academics Dr Zina Alfahl and Dr Louise O’Connor have constructed a portable technology for the testing of the pathogen Shiga toxigenic Escherichia coli (STEC) in water sources such as rivers, lakes and wells.
Ireland regularly reports the highest crude incidence rates of the STEC in Europe. The bacteria produces the harmful Shiga toxin, which, if ingested by humans, can cause severe stomach illnesses and, in some cases, life-threatening complications, especially in children under five and older, or immunocompromised people.
The researchers say the new technology is accurate and highly sensitive, and results are delivered quickly once the water is tested. Their research tested samples from groundwater wells, rivers, a turlough, and a farm drain on the Corrib catchment in Galway. Of the samples tested 61 per cent were positive for the presence of this dangerous pathogen.
“This technology could be a crucial intervention in helping to prevent outbreaks of infection in families and communities using wells, private water supplies and groundwater schemes,” Dr O’Connor said.
“Immediate results can help public health officers and water management authorities make informed decisions to protect public health. This rapid response capability is crucial for preventing the spread of waterborne diseases and ensuring the safety of drinking water.”
Dr Alfahl added: “We are hoping that environmental health officers and groundwater schemes in Ireland could use the technology on-site allowing for more frequent testing especially in or after extreme weather, (or) periods of intense rainfall, because it is those conditions which lead to water supplies being contaminated.”
STEC is normally found in the intestines of healthy animals like cows and sheep, which carry it without getting sick. The bacteria spreads to people through contact with animal waste, or by eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
A small sample of water can be tested on-site using loop isothermal amplification technology, which can identify the genetic markers of STEC bacteria, and related E. coli. The results are delivered in about 40minutes through a reading on screen. Traditional lab testing of samples can take days for results to be returned.
The researchers believe that the test will be especially beneficial for the 720,000 people in Ireland who rely on private groundwater wells for their drinking water. Due to less stringent regulations and testing, water quality from these sources can vary significantly.
The research, funded by Environment Protection Agency through the DERIVE project, has been published in the journal Microbiology.