Discovery of antibiotic-resistant superbugs in L.A. wastewater sparks worry

An article in The Los Angeles Times quoted Diana Aga on the discovery of antibiotic-resistant superbugs in Los Angeles wastewater. The spread of antibiotic resistance through effluent is a big concern worldwide, said Aga. “One of the many reasons why there are antibiotic resistant bacteria that emerge is because we find many chemical pollutants, including antibiotic residues, in the environment at low concentrations,” including in bodies of water where wastewater is discharged after treatment, she said. “Constant exposure of bacteria to antibiotics is the ideal environment for creating superbugs.”