Urban Birds Identified as Significant Carriers of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria

New research highlights the role of city-dwelling birds in the spread of antimicrobial resistance, posing a potential threat to human health.

Study analyzed 700 bacterial samples from 30 bird species across eight countries.
Birds in urban areas carry up to three times more antibiotic-resistant genes than rural birds.
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria in birds can transfer to humans, livestock, and pets.
Sources of contamination include wastewater, landfill sites, and untreated sewage.
Experts call for coordinated global action to address the spread of antimicrobial resistance.