Thames at Risk of Being A Breeding Ground for Antibiotic-Resistant Superbugs
Scientists at the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology have investigated the impact of antibiotic prescriptions on the formation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the River Thames. According to the results of the study, there needs to be an 80% reduction in antibiotics entering the river in order to avoid the development of antibiotic-resistant strains.
These resistant bacteria pose an ever-increasing threat to health care facilities, hospitals, and virtually any location that houses the immunocompromised.
The lead investigator of the study, Dr. Andrew Singer says, "Rivers are a 'reservoir' for antibiotic-resistant bacteria which can quickly spread to people via water, soil, air, food, and animals. Our beaches offer a similar risk. It has been shown that surfers are four times more likely to carry drug-resistant bacteria than non-surfers."
Antibiotics find their way into rivers through various means, however, prescription antibiotics are the main source. These prescription antibiotics enter by being ingested into human bodies and ending up in the sewage system (nearly 90%). Potential ways to decrease antibiotics entering water systems include reducing antibiotic need by implementing healthy lifestyle interventions and decrease unnecessary prescriptions by health care professionals.