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Project Code [2008-EH-MS-6-S3]
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Project title
Hospital effluent: impact on the microbial environment and risk to human health?
Primary Funding Agency
Environmental Protection Agency
Co-Funding Organisation(s)
n/a
Lead Organisation
National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG)
Lead Applicant
Martin Cormican
Project Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is a significant public health problem. The contribution the environment makes to emergence and dissemination of antimicrobial resistance is an area of increasing concern. This project will detect and quantify antimicrobial resistant E. coli and quinolone residues in hospital effluent, urban wastewater, sewage sludge and biosolids. The impact of secondary wastewater treatment and sludge treatment processes in removing antimicrobial resistant E. coli and quinolone/fluoroquinolone residues from wastewater will be assessed. This information will contribute to the development of a risk assessment model of human exposure to antimicrobial resistant E. coli and quinolone/fluoroquinolone residues related to the discharge of hospital effluent. In terms of academic output, this project will result in the production of one Ph.D. thesis, at least four peer reviewed papers, and several conference presentations. This research will increase capacity and strengthen links between the institutions involved, and inform policy related to the management of hospital discharges, urban waste water treatment, and use of sewage sludge/biosolids in agriculture. Recommendations to sanitary and/or regulatory authorities on potential intervention strategies will be provided.
Grant Approved
�349,513.71
Research Hub
Healthy Environment
Research Theme
Impacts on Aquatic Ecosystems & Human Health (including Drinking Water)
Initial Projected Completion Date
01/10/2011