‘Drinking from a fetid pond’: superbug-creating genes found in UK’s largest lake

Genes capable of creating antibiotic-resistant superbugs have been found in Lough Neagh, the UK's largest lake. Water testing revealed the presence of genes resistant to multiple antibiotics, including carbapenems, which are last-resort drugs used for severe infections. Lough Neagh supplies drinking water to approximately 40% of Northern Ireland. The discovery raises concerns about the potential spread of antibiotic resistance through the water supply. The presence of these genes highlights a potential risk to public health, as they could contribute to the development of infections that are difficult or impossible to treat.