Detection of Virulence Genes in Rare Serovars of Salmonella Isolated from River Ganges

Water pollution is a major problem in India. Ganga is the most holy river of the country and contributes significantly in Indian economy. Water of river ganga has been polluted seriously in last few years. In the present study few isolates of Salmonella which are not so common in India were isolated from river Ganga were evaluated for the presence of virulence contributing genes. In present study 24 isolates were studied for presence of three major virulence contributing genes ie stn, vir and pef. Out of 24 isolates vir gene was present in 11 isolates, pef was present in 18 isolates and stn was present in 19 isolates. Five isolates were having all three genes. Most of these isolates have exhibited multiple drug resistance. Therefore, there presence in gangetic water can cause serious health problems.