Scientists at Oswaldo Cruz Institute (Fiocruz) said bacteria, which produce a KPC enzyme resistant to drugs, were discovered in water samples collected from three locations along the Carioca River, including the point it flows into the bay. The bacteria can cause urinary and pulmonary diseases.
These waters have been designated as the site of Olympic sailing and windsurfing events, raising health concerns. The Flamengo Beach nearby has been declared dangerous for swimmers several times, although many people disregard the warning.
"Still, the survey results were sent to the competent authorities who can assess the measures that need to be adopted," she noted.
Like other "superbugs," the KPC-producing strain is generally detected in hospitals where antibiotics used to treat illnesses exterminate susceptible bacteria, leading to the emergence of highly-resistant strains that can withstand all known drugs.
