1. “Swimmers at risk from antibiotic-resistant superbugs in Irish waters”
2. “Contamination of Irish waters poses threat to swimmers from antibiotic-resistant superbugs”.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has identified antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as one of the top 10 greatest threats to human health, highlighting the urgent need for action.
Wastewater Discharges Increase Risk of Illness Linked to Superbugs
A report commissioned by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has revealed that antimicrobial-resistant organisms, commonly referred to as superbugs, are present in waters affected by wastewater discharges. Swimmers and individuals participating in marine leisure activities in these waters face an increased risk of illness associated with these superbugs.
The study conducted by researchers from the University of Galway, UCD, and Teagasc also highlighted the limitations of the current EU bathing water-quality rating system, which solely relies on e.coli levels as an indicator of water quality. The detection of antimicrobial-resistant organisms in areas classified as having good or excellent water quality emphasizes the need for a more comprehensive approach to assessing water quality.
Healthcare Facilities Contribute More to AMR Than Farming Activities
Contrary to popular belief, the pollution from healthcare facilities such as hospitals and nursing homes is a larger potential contributor to the problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) than farming activities. The study found that the contamination from healthcare facilities poses a significant risk to human health and requires immediate attention.
Dangerous Superbugs Detected in Irish Waters
The AREST project on AMR and the environment revealed the presence of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE), also known as CPE, in Irish waters. CPE is considered a highly dangerous superbug and was declared a public health emergency for several years by the Health Service Executive (HSE). The detection of CPE and other antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in Irish waters is concerning and poses a significant risk to human health, potentially leading to illness and loss of life.
‘The issue of ARB development is a mounting threat to human well-being and requires action’
The authors of the report stressed the urgency of taking action to address the development of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria (ARB). These bacteria present in surface waters can have a detrimental impact on human health, leading to illness, loss of life, and increased pressure on healthcare services. The mounting threat of ARB development necessitates comprehensive research, effective practices, and legislation to safeguard human well-being.
