Antibiotic-Resistant Skin Diseases from a Freshwater Fish Tank

A recent insight has found the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in ornamental fish which is a concern area as it can spread diseases to their human owners. Nearly 32 freshwater fish were examined by researchers including common household species like neon tetras, cory catfish, and flame gouramis. The investigation revealed that the fish, which came from Colombia, Florida and Singapore, were found to contain antibiotic- resistant bacteria which can spread to humans.

Further, the fish were also found to be resistant to the antibiotics Tetracycline, commonly used in the treatment of infections like chlamydia in humans. Researchers are of the opinion that frequent use of antibiotics in the ornamental fish industry is behind antibiotic resistance.

“This is not surprising considering the widespread use of these classes of antibiotics in the ornamental fish industry. However, the researchers also found that the fish were resistant to some antibiotics that aren't commonly used. We don't know why that is, it could be industry testing that's going on somewhere."

Those with compromised immune systems need to be careful. This is a piece of advice for people to be aware and not a warning to stop keeping ornamental fish.



Source-Medindia