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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)

Start Date

01/10/2008

Initial Projected Completion Date

01/10/2011