Drinking water plumbing systems are a hot spot for antimicrobial-resistant pathogens

This study investigates the prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) pathogens in drinking water plumbing systems in Australia. Results show that 73% of residential water and biofilm samples were positive for at least one AMR pathogen, with 45% harboring at least two. Drain biofilms were the most common reservoir for AMR, with carbapenem resistance genes found in samples otherwise negative for P. aeruginosa. The study highlights the need for enhanced surveillance and targeted interventions to mitigate AMR risks in drinking water plumbing systems.