Published on 23/12/2009
Natural levels of resistance to antibiotics are rising despite more careful use of medicine and agricultural controls, it has been claimed.
According to scientists from Newcastle University, bacterial DNA from soil samples collected over the past 70 years indicates a rise in background levels of antibiotic resistance.
Professor David Graham, who led the research, warned that the findings could have future implications for future public and environmental health.
He warned that increasing resistance levels can contribute to harmful bacteria, such as MRSA.
Professor Graham added: "Despite increasingly stringent controls on our use of antibiotics, the background level of antibiotic resistant genes, which are markers for potential resistance, continues to rise in soils."
The study was published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology, and comes as research suggests that pomegranates could contain chemicals that can help ward off the MRSA superbug.
© ActiveQuote Health Ltd. 2009
Categories: NHS and Hospitals
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