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OKIsItJustMe

(22,291 posts)
Mon Jun 8, 2026, 09:17 PM 11 hrs ago

Antibiotic resistance genes found across world oceans, Italian study shows

https://www.reuters.com/business/environment/antibiotic-resistance-genes-found-across-world-oceans-italian-study-shows-2026-06-08/
By Reuters
June 8, 2026 7:04 AM EDT

ROME, June 8 (Reuters) - Genes linked to antibiotic resistance are present across multiple ocean basins, including remote waters, ​according to findings released on Monday from an Italian-led research ‌project that analysed seawater samples worldwide.

The SeA Care project found antibiotic-resistance genes in the Mediterranean, Atlantic, Arctic and other regions, with higher concentrations detected near busy shipping routes ​and densely populated coastal areas.



The study, presented on Monday at a forum on ocean and human health in Rome hosted by Italy's National Health Institute (ISS), also detected microplastics, PFAS "forever chemicals" ​and traces of SARS‑CoV‑2 genetic material even in open ocean waters and ​remote regions.

"Protecting human health today inevitably means taking care of the seas and oceans," ‌ISS ⁠Director General Andrea Piccioli said, adding that pollutants released into the environment are redistributed globally through water, food and climate systems.

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Antibiotic resistance genes found across world oceans, Italian study shows (Original Post) OKIsItJustMe 11 hrs ago OP
Just great. littlemissmartypants 3 hrs ago #1
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