In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at curbing the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a novel project has been launched in low- and middle-income countries of Eastern Europe. The research, published in *One Health & Risk Management*, combines phage treatment and wetland technology to tackle a pressing global health challenge. This innovative approach not only promises to safeguard public health but also holds significant potential for the agriculture sector.
Antimicrobial resistance is a formidable challenge that transcends biological, physical, and geographical barriers. The excessive use of antimicrobials in human medicine, veterinary practices, agriculture, and aquaculture has long been identified as a primary driver of AMR. The “One Health” approach, which guides global research and policies on AMR, underscores the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
The project, led by Elena Ciobanu of the Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy in the Republic of Moldova, aims to assess the epidemiological risk of wastewater as a source of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. “Our goal is to develop a secure, cost-effective, and sustainable technology that can be easily introduced in low- and middle-income countries,” Ciobanu explained.
The research involves several key steps, including mapping the consumption of antimicrobials at the national level, conducting surveys on public knowledge and attitudes towards AMR, and evaluating barriers to reducing AMR in healthcare services. Additionally, the project will screen and investigate microbial resistance mechanisms in patients with infectious diseases and analyze the features of Constructed Wetlands in Orhei.
The results of this research are expected to provide a deeper understanding of the factors contributing to the spread of AMR and its transmission among different hosts. This knowledge could have a profound impact on the engineering field and wastewater management companies, offering sophisticated technologies designed to reduce the risk of AMR transmission in wastewater and improve sewerage practices.
For the agriculture sector, the implications are substantial. Effective wastewater management can prevent the spread of resistant bacteria to agricultural lands, ensuring food safety and security. “By implementing these technologies, we can protect our crops and livestock from the harmful effects of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, ultimately benefiting farmers and consumers alike,” Ciobanu noted.
The project, conducted within the JPIAMR projects (PhageLand), project number 22.80013.8007.1, represents a significant step forward in the global fight against antimicrobial resistance. Its findings could pave the way for scalable, implementable, and cost-effective solutions that can be adopted at both European and international levels, regardless of economic or geographical constraints.
As the world grapples with the growing threat of AMR, this research offers a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative technology in addressing one of the most pressing health challenges of our time.