Photo credit: UP Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs

In many rural communities, artesian well—or “poso”—water serves as the main source of drinking water, especially where commercial water is either too expensive or difficult to access. But a recent study warns that relying on untreated artesian water may carry hidden risks, including exposure to disease-causing bacteria resistant to antibiotics.

Researchers examined 30 water samples from selected barangays in Los Baños, Laguna to check for Escherichia coli (E. coli), a common indicator of fecal contamination. The findings were concerning: eight samples showed signs of fecal contamination, and three tested positive for E. coli. Even more alarming, one of these E. coli isolates was resistant to four different antibiotics, linked to the TEM gene, which provides resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics.

The study also revealed that 10 households were using water from a source containing antibiotic-resistant E. coli as their drinking water.

“This study aims to raise awareness of the presence of multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria in water sources such as artesian well waters, specifically E. coli, which is an indicator of fecal contamination. MDR bacteria increase the risk of contracting diseases that are harder to treat, thus posing a significant public health concern,” the researchers noted.

The study underscores the importance of educating communities about the risks of untreated water and implementing regular monitoring of artesian wells. Providing safe drinking water through local government initiatives is also recommended to protect public health.

MDR bacteria in water sources not only threaten the immediate health of those who consume them but can also spread resistance to other bacteria, complicating efforts to control infections. Researchers stress that ensuring access to safe water and proper monitoring is critical in preventing the spread of these dangerous pathogens.

Authors: Marian Jean T. Panganiban (University of the Philippines Los Baños), Ivan Raden A. Rosario (St. Luke’s College of Medicine), and Noel G. Sabino (University of the Philippines Los Baños).