Salmonella enterica strain:CP06182 Genome sequencing
Bacterial pathogens in contaminated water may transfer to fresh produce during irrigation. Foodborne outbreaks and recalls associated with Salmonella contamination in fresh produce have been documented. Our study showed Salmonella isolated from creek water used for irrigation have potential to specific disease and antimicrobial resistance. Further, plasmid, a small circular DNA separate from host cell DNA, linked to disease potential and antimicrobial resistance transfer were observed. These pathogens were able to adapt to different environmental conditions making it difficult to remove from environment. The information regarding persistence and survival of Salmonella environmental isolates offer useful insights for agricultural water quality monitoring, risk assessment, and mitigation strategies to prevent outbreaks and protect public health.