New superbug discovered in UK
Wednesday 11th August 2010
A new superbug that is highly resistant to even strong antibiotics has been found in hospitals in the UK.
Research published in the Lancet Infectious Diseases journal revealed that 37 cases have been seen in the country.
According to the scientists who carried out the report, the new strain of superbug originated in India and was more than likely introduced to Britain when people returned from trips to either India or Pakistan.
Two different bacteria create an enzyme called NDM-1 and they are "highly resistant to all antibiotics except tigecycline and colistin".
Interpreting their findings, the authors of the study stated that NDM-1 could present "a worldwide public health problem" and added that "coordinated international surveillance is needed".
The research could highlight the importance of sterile services within hospitals.
A spokeswoman from the Department of Health told the BBC that hospitals need to ensure that they continue to implement "good infection control" to help limit the spread of the superbug.
Written by Matthew Horton
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