Exploring the Antibiotics Resistance Profile of Enterococcus faecium and Enterococcus faecalis isolated from Municipal Wastewater

Abstract

Enterococcus species, especially Enterococcus faecium and Enterococcus faecalis, are opportunistic pathogens recognised for their ability to thrive in various environments. They are also important for their involvement in hospital acquired infections. Enterococci demonstrate well known resistance to antibiotics, caused by mechanisms such as horizontal gene transfer, enzymatic modifications and biofilm development. Municipal wastewater acts as a significant source for antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB), playing a role in the dissemination of the resistance genes. This research explores the antibiotic resistance profiles and biofilm formation abilities of E. faecium and E. faecalis isolates obtained from municipal wastewater.