The hospital sink drain biofilm resistome is independent of the corresponding microbiota, the environment and disinfection measures

This study investigates the transmission of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and the dissemination of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) via sink drains in two intensive care units (ICUs) in France. Samples were collected from January to April 2023, and the microbiota and resistome of sink drain biofilms (SDBs) and hospital wastewater were analyzed. The results showed that the abundance of ARGs and MGEs is independent of microbiota composition and disinfection practices. The microbiota of the NICU and AICU WW samples showed distinct variations over a four-month period. The study highlights the need for innovative strategies to combat antimicrobial resistance in clinical environments, as sink drains play a significant role in the transmission of ARB. The resistome of hospital SDBs in the two ICUs is independent of microbiota, environment, and local disinfection measures.