Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item:
https://dora.health.qld.gov.au/qldresearchjspui/handle/1/11971| Title: | Infection by Clonally Related Mycobacterium abscessus Isolates: The Role of Drinking Water | Authors: | Thomson, R. M.;Wheeler, N.;Stockwell, R. E.;Bryant, J.;Taylor, S. L.;Leong, L. E. X.;Le, T. ;Rogers, G. B.;Carter, R.;Sherrard, L. J.;Powell, H.;Simpson, G.;Patterson-Fahy, K.;Wainwright, C. E. ;Floto, R. A.;Parkhill, J.;Bell, S. C. | Issue Date: | 2025 | Source: | Am J Respir Crit Care Med, 2025 (211) 5 p.842-853 | Pages: | 842-853 | Journal Title: | Am J Respir Crit Care Med | Abstract: | Rationale: Mycobacterium abscessus (MABS) group bacteria cause lethal infections in people with chronic lung diseases. Transmission mechanisms remain poorly understood; the detection of dominant circulating clones (DCCs) has suggested the potential for person-to-person transmission. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the role of drinking water in the transmission of MABS. Methods: A total of 289 isolates were cultured from respiratory samples (n = 231) and drinking water sources (n = 58) across Queensland, Australia. Measurements and Main Results: Whole-genome sequences were analyzed to identify DCCs and determine relatedness. Half of the isolates (n = 144; 49.8%) clustered with previously described DCCs, of which 30 formed a clade within DCC5. Pan-genomic analysis of the water-associated DCC5 clade revealed an enrichment of genes associated with copper resistance. Four instances of plausible epidemiological links were identified between genomically related clinical and water isolates. Conclusions: We provide evidence that drinking water is a reservoir for MABS and may be a vector in the chain of MABS infection. | DOI: | 10.1164/rccm.202409-1824OC |
| Appears in Sites: | Children's Health Queensland Publications Queensland Health Publications |
Show full item record
Items in DORA are protected by copyright, with all rights reserved, unless otherwise indicated.