Mexican Scientists Monitor Rivers to Prevent Public Health Threats

Researchers from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) are using the Querétaro River as a strategic site for scientific research. The objective is to locate genetic evidence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and other pathogens with potential public health impact. This project represents a new phase of an initiative begun in 2001, which initially focused on analyzing urban wastewater. Specialists have shown that drainage can function as a highly sensitive community sensor, reflecting the collective health of a population. During the COVID-19 pandemic, wastewater monitoring allowed for the anticipation of epidemic waves up to two weeks in advance. Between 2023 and 2024, more than 20 human viruses were identified in water samples using metagenomic techniques, including pathogens not previously reported clinically, such as the monkeypox virus. In collaboration with Brazilian scientific institutions, the team also evaluated the presence of seven antimicrobial resistance genes in five treatment plants in Mexico and Brazil. One of the main challenges identified is that while the monitoring of pathogens in wastewater is regulated, there is no equivalent regulation for rivers. Therefore, the work in the Querétaro River aims to scientifically demonstrate the presence of these agents and lay the groundwork for future sanitary surveillance norms for rivers in Mexico. The research also includes the analysis of aerosols generated from the river water to understand how they interact with resistant bacteria and pathogens in the environment. Rosa María Ramírez Zamora, director of the institute, highlighted that the annual meeting allows for identifying collaboration opportunities and scientific developments transferable to industry and government.