Typhoid bacteria developing dangerous antibiotic resistance

An ancient killer has evolved into a dangerous threat as it develops resistance to antibiotics, warn researchers.

Typhoid bacteria becoming resistant to antibiotics at alarming rate

Researchers reveal that Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi, which causes typhoid fever, has significantly mutated to resist common antibiotics. A study found over 4,000 strains were identified as extensively drug-resistant. The bacteria have crossed borders, spreading resistant strains approximately 200 times since 1990, primarily from South Asia to other regions, including Africa. Common treatments like Ampicillin and Azithromycin are becoming ineffective, raising urgent concerns about public health as typhoid fever continues to infect millions worldwide.

The rapid evolution of S. Typhi poses a major threat to public health systems, especially in regions with poor sanitation. The study highlighted that while some may view typhoid as a localized issue, its resistance patterns indicate a global problem that requires a unified response. The transmission of resistant strains across borders suggests that international health policies need to strengthen measures against antibiotic resistance. Researchers stress the need for enhanced genomic surveillance to track the expanding threat of resistant bacteria.

Highlights

The health community must prioritize tracking and controlling resistant strains globally.