From source water to drinking water: Microbiological quality analysis of water collected from two First Nation communities in Manitoba, Canada

This study determined the microbiological quality of drinking water from various water distribution systems of two First Nation communities in Manitoba, Canada. E. coli, other coliforms as well as different types of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) were more often detected in water from homes with cisterns than homes with the direct-lined piped system. Cistern water showed the presence of bacteria, as well as ARGs, and had free chlorine concentrations less than the World Health Organization (WHO) standard recommended level that is 0.2 mg/L. Also, environmental changes affect the fecal bacterial counts as warmer months showed higher counts than the colder months. Moreover, this study also showed the presence of mecA gene carrying Mammaliicoccus fleurettii in lake water which is used as source water and recreational purposes in a First Nation community in Manitoba, Canada. Our study suggests that both drinking water and recreational water should be monitored for taking further steps to protect the community residents’ health from waterborne illness.