Drug resistant super bugs detected in Kerala water bodies

A recent study has detected the presence of superbugs, bacteria that have developed resistance to antibiotics, in the water bodies in the state. The finding raises a major concern as treating the infections caused by these bacteria would require new antibiotics for treatment. 
 

The Kerala University of Oceanography and Fisheries Studies detected the presence of bacteria in water bodies near to hospitals across the state. The study was conducted as part of a research work. It was found that the bacteria that were detected in these waterbodies have achieved resistance over antibiotics present in the market. 
 

These bacteria pose serious health hazards to animals and humans alike. One of the bacterias was Streptococcus pneumonia which is resistant to 18 varieties of antibiotics.  
 

"The finding is of major concern as we will need new antibiotics to treat infections from these bacterias. Improper effluent management prevailing in the state and overuse of antibiotics have led to this situation. Doctors prescribe antibiotics for every situation, even to treat minor ailments. They aim at quick healing. These antibiotic elements reach water bodies, and bacterias gain resistance against them," Head of Department of Aquatic Animal Health Management Devika Pillai said. 
 

Disposal of biomedical waste into water bodies also contributed to the situation. "Bacteria causing pneumonia and tuberculosis are resistant to antibodies now. World Health Organisation had published a list of 12 bacterial families that have gained resistance to antibiotics. Streptococcus pneumonia is one among them, which has developed resistance to even third generation antibiotics. 
 

With the antibiotic resistance growing, we are fast running out of medicines to treat infections. It is not that easy to develop new antibiotics and what is to be done is to adopt countermeasures to neutralise the threat. Cleaner surroundings and better sanitation around community and hospitals can bring down drug usage.With the reduced usage of medications, bacterias will become lesser resistant to them. 
 

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