Scientists find drug-resistant superbug in Rio de Janeiro’s waters

Scientists of Oswaldo Cruz Institute in Brazil have found a drug-resistant bacteria in the sea waters in Rio de Janeiro where the sailing and windsurfing events for the 2016 Olympics will be held.

The toxic ‘super-bacteria’ produces an enzyme called KPC, which is resistant to normal forms of treatment, according to the health research institute.

Water samples collected from the Carioca River and the Guanabara Bay connecting it to the Flamengo beach were found to carry the bacteria, which can cause urinary, gastrointestinal and pulmonary infections.

Oswaldo Cruz Institute’s study co-ordinator Ana Paula D’Alincourt Carvalho Assef told Associated Press: "The problem is that in case of infection it is possible that treatment involves hospitalisation.

"Since the super-bacteria is resistant to the most modern medications, doctors need to rely on drugs that are rarely used because they are toxic to the organism."

Flamengo beach in Brazil is mostly declared unsuitable for swimming. However, people have been found to ignore official restrictions, reports the BBC.

Locals have now been instructed to take extra care.

Almost 70% of Rio de Janeiro’s waste spilled into the river waters at the bay.

Though the city authorities had promised to cut down pollution at the bay by 80%, Mayor Eduardo Silva had admitted in June that targets would not be met. The findings could raise concern among the athletes.

However, authorities insist that water pollution will not cause major health risks during the Olympics, which will be held in August 2016.