Typhoid Bacteria Found in Drinking Water in Chattogram
Chattogram City Correspondent
A study by Chattogram University’s Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology has detected Salmonella Typhi, a multidrug-resistant bacterium causing typhoid fever, in 5.33% of drinking water samples in the city. The research, published in Heliyon Journal, analyzed 150 samples from hospitals, restaurants, residences, and diagnostic centers.
Lead researcher Prof. Dr. A.M. Masudul Azad Chowdhury revealed that 87.5% of the detected bacteria carried antibiotic-resistant genes, posing a public health threat. While some antibiotics like cotrimoxazole and ciprofloxacin remain effective, resistance is growing.
Experts warn that without improved water purification and sanitation systems, typhoid infections could escalate into an epidemic, especially affecting children and immunocompromised individuals. They recommend enhancing water safety, promoting vaccination, raising antibiotic awareness, and investing in research on new treatments and vaccines.
Urgent governmental action is necessary to mitigate this escalating health crisis.
