WHO warns on new antibiotic-resistant bacteria

The World Health Organization said that a new antibiotic-resistant bacteria has the potential to spread internationally, but at the same time there was no cause for alarm.

In a statement WHO said the bacteria that produces an enzyme called NDM-1, which makes them resistant to most antibiotics.

So far, researchers have reported the vast majority of cases in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Other cases have been reported from the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Australia, Canada, the USA and Sweden, adding it is possible that NDM-1 bacteria have spread to other countries but have not been identified.

Countries should be prepared to implement hospital infection control measures to limit the spread of multi-drug resistant strains and to reinforce national policy on prudent use of antibiotics.

The WHO said those called upon to be alert to the problem and take appropriate action include consumers, prescribers and dispensers, veterinarians, and managers of hospitals and diagnostic laboratories, patients and visitors to healthcare facilities as well as national governments, the pharmaceutical industry, professional societies, and international agencies.


Story by: Ana Naisoro