Free-Living Amoebae and Associated Drug-Resistant Bacteria in Surface Waters: A Public Health Concern?

Abstract

Protozoan parasites are a diverse group of microorganisms. Among the protozoa, free-living amoeba can reside in freshwater that includes surface waters and pose risk of opportunistic infections caused by some species. In addition, interactions of these free-living amoebae with drug-resistant bacteria in surface waters can pose a public health risk as they promote the survival and proliferation of these drug-resistant bacteria.