Uh oh…
Scientists have discovered a new strain of salmonella labeled as a “superbug” because it is highly resistant to the antibiotic Ciprofloxacin, or Cipro, often used for severe salmonella infections.
Known as S. Kentucky, the drug-resistant infection has spread internationally with almost 500 cases found in France, Denmark, England and Wales in the period between 2002 and 2008!
The Atlantic hasn’t prevented it from crossing U.S. boarders either. French researchers say the infection may have reached the U.S. after studying reports of infection in Canada and contamination of imported food in the states.
While most infections only cause mild gastroenteritis with stomach cramps, fever and diarrhea, older people or those with weaker immune systems are particularly at risk of life-threatening infections.
In a study which found cases for the superbug rising from 3 in 2002 to 174 in 2008, researchers believe “poultry is an important agent for infection” and wrote:
“We hope that this publication might stir awareness among national and international health, food and agricultural authorities so that they take the necessary measures to control and stop the dissemination of this strain before it spreads globally.”
We hope so to! Salmonella is one thing, but super salmonella? We only like the word “super” attached to heroes!
[Image via AP Images.]
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