Are antibiotics losing battle against typhoid?
1
2
3
Ahmedabad: A recent study has raised alarm bells about the growing resistance of typhoid-causing bacteria to several antibiotics, in some cases up to 90%, potentially complicating treatment options for this common disease.
This study by Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) scientists, along with other organisations, is the latest among several studies in the past decade that flagged the rise of AMR typhoid in Gujarat and in India.
Researchers studied isolated Salmonella Typhi or S Typhi, the bacteria responsible for typhoid fever, collected from Ahmedabad and Vadodara against 28 antibiotics used for treatment of typhoid and found several of them showing over 90% resistance.
The group also pinpointed genes for third-generation antibiotics for some classes and suggested another class of antibiotics.
Typhoid fever, caused by contaminated food or water or poor hygiene, is a common disease for Asia, Africa and Latin America and is marked by fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, rashes and in extreme cases, intestinal bleeding. Symptoms generally last for five to six days and doctors generally use antibiotics for treatment.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around
Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List
Undo
In Ahmedabad city, monsoons often see 200-odd cases a month.
The study, 'Comprehensive analysis of extensive drug-resistant Salmonella Typhi in Gujarat region, India: genomic findings and prospective alternative therapy' was recently published in the American Society for Microbiology journal Microbiology Spectrum. Its authors include SD Akshay, Heli Upadhyaya and 16 others from GBRC, MS University of Baroda, BJ Medical College, state govt's Commissionerate of Health, and Toprani Labs in Vadodara.
'Determining fluoroquinolones (FQs) and third-generation cephalosporin resistance underscores the urgent need for alternative therapeutic strategiesOur research revealed alarming resistance trends to key antibiotics, such as ceftriaxone, cotrimoxazole, amikacin, ampicillin, cefepime, cefixime, cefotaxime, ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, and gentamicin, limiting effective hospital treatment approaches,' the findings state.
The researchers also highlighted the role of specific plasmids that carry resistance genes.'Our findings revealed that combination therapy with β-lactam antibiotics and β-lactam inhibitors (BLI) significantly improved the treatment efficacy against extensively drug resistant (XDR) S. Typhi, contributing to more favourable clinical results and reducing treatment failures,' read the findings, adding that this can effectively manage infections and avoid resistance development.
Health experts in Ahmedabad say that the drug-resistant typhoid has been a reality for nearly a decade, in varied frequencies. Dr Urvesh Shah, professor and head of GCS Medical College's microbiology department, said that quinolone, the drug of choice a decade ago, is now getting resistant in more than 50% cases.
"While third-generation cephalosporin are a drug of choice, we now get scattered cases of its resistance, which is alarming.
While azithromycin retains its sensitivity, it should be given as a supplementary drug only," said Dr Shah, adding that the bottom line from such findings is steady rise of drug-resistant bacteria which should be addressed through proper use of drugs, their proper duration, and correct diagnosis.
Dr RC Damani, internal medicine specialist at KD Hospital, said that compared to the scenario a decade ago, the medical fraternity is now forced to look at alternatives for the AMR typhoid.
"Treatment protocols have changed today for antibiotic use. There is better screening also for determining typhoid cases," he said, adding that not all cases of typhoid are of AMR organisms.
"The two popular methods to confirm typhoid are blood culture to determine bacteria and sonography to find signs such as swollen lymph nodes. While some start treatment for symptoms, the wrong use of antibiotics can add to the burden of AMR.
Typhoid is a very common disease and we have seen a change in form of its duration from five days to seven days and treatment from oral medication to IV in serious cases," said Dr Pragnesh Vachcharajani, secretary of the Federation of Family Physicians' Association of India.
Ahmedabad: A recent study has raised alarm bells about the growing resistance of typhoid-causing bacteria to several antibiotics, in some cases up to 90%, potentially complicating treatment options for this common disease.
This study by Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) scientists, along with other organisations, is the latest among several studies in the past decade that flagged the rise of AMR typhoid in Gujarat and in India.
Researchers studied isolated Salmonella Typhi or S Typhi, the bacteria responsible for typhoid fever, collected from Ahmedabad and Vadodara against 28 antibiotics used for treatment of typhoid and found several of them showing over 90% resistance.
The group also pinpointed genes for third-generation antibiotics for some classes and suggested another class of antibiotics.
Typhoid fever, caused by contaminated food or water or poor hygiene, is a common disease for Asia, Africa and Latin America and is marked by fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, rashes and in extreme cases, intestinal bleeding. Symptoms generally last for five to six days and doctors generally use antibiotics for treatment.
In Ahmedabad city, monsoons often see 200-odd cases a month.
The study, 'Comprehensive analysis of extensive drug-resistant Salmonella Typhi in Gujarat region, India: genomic findings and prospective alternative therapy' was recently published in the American Society for Microbiology journal Microbiology Spectrum. Its authors include SD Akshay, Heli Upadhyaya and 16 others from GBRC, MS University of Baroda, BJ Medical College, state govt's Commissionerate of Health, and Toprani Labs in Vadodara.
'Determining fluoroquinolones (FQs) and third-generation cephalosporin resistance underscores the urgent need for alternative therapeutic strategiesOur research revealed alarming resistance trends to key antibiotics, such as ceftriaxone, cotrimoxazole, amikacin, ampicillin, cefepime, cefixime, cefotaxime, ciprofloxacin, tetracycline, and gentamicin, limiting effective hospital treatment approaches,' the findings state.
The researchers also highlighted the role of specific plasmids that carry resistance genes.'Our findings revealed that combination therapy with β-lactam antibiotics and β-lactam inhibitors (BLI) significantly improved the treatment efficacy against extensively drug resistant (XDR) S. Typhi, contributing to more favourable clinical results and reducing treatment failures,' read the findings, adding that this can effectively manage infections and avoid resistance development.
Health experts in Ahmedabad say that the drug-resistant typhoid has been a reality for nearly a decade, in varied frequencies. Dr Urvesh Shah, professor and head of GCS Medical College's microbiology department, said that quinolone, the drug of choice a decade ago, is now getting resistant in more than 50% cases.
"While third-generation cephalosporin are a drug of choice, we now get scattered cases of its resistance, which is alarming.
While azithromycin retains its sensitivity, it should be given as a supplementary drug only," said Dr Shah, adding that the bottom line from such findings is steady rise of drug-resistant bacteria which should be addressed through proper use of drugs, their proper duration, and correct diagnosis.
Dr RC Damani, internal medicine specialist at KD Hospital, said that compared to the scenario a decade ago, the medical fraternity is now forced to look at alternatives for the AMR typhoid.
"Treatment protocols have changed today for antibiotic use. There is better screening also for determining typhoid cases," he said, adding that not all cases of typhoid are of AMR organisms.
"The two popular methods to confirm typhoid are blood culture to determine bacteria and sonography to find signs such as swollen lymph nodes. While some start treatment for symptoms, the wrong use of antibiotics can add to the burden of AMR. Typhoid is a very common disease and we have seen a change in form of its duration from five days to seven days and treatment from oral medication to IV in serious cases," said Dr Pragnesh Vachcharajani, secretary of the Federation of Family Physicians' Association of India.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Giant snakes that eat humans— The real life serpent monsters
Giant snakes, including reticulated pythons, green anacondas, Burmese pythons, and African rock pythons, are real predators capable of attacking humans. These powerful constrictors inhabit regions like Southeast Asia, the Amazon, and Florida, posing a threat due to their size and strength. While attacks are rare, they can be fatal, emphasizing the importance of caution and awareness in snake-prone areas. When someone says 'giant snake,' your brain probably jumps straight to a movie scene — you know, a huge slithery beast lurking in the jungle, ready to snatch a person like it's grabbing a snack. Sounds like fiction, right? Well... not always. The truth is, some snakes out there are big enough, strong enough, and occasionally bold enough to go after humans. It's creepy. It's fascinating. And yeah, it's 100% real. Why are we so obsessed with giant snakes? Because they're equal parts terrifying and amazing. These creatures are ancient, powerful, and totally alien in how they move and hunt. They've inspired myths and monsters for centuries, and it's easy to see why. They're real-life predators, living in wild places most of us never see — and that mystery only adds to their legend. Reticulated Python These guys are the world's longest snakes. A reticulated python can stretch out over 20 feet, and a few big ones have even passed the 30-foot mark. That's longer than a school bus! They live in Southeast Asia — places like Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines. And here's the kicker: they're not just long, they're strong. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 오스템 임플란트 받아가세요 임플란터 더 알아보기 Undo These snakes don't use venom. Instead, they wrap themselves around their prey and squeeze the life out of it. Literally. Once the prey stops moving? Gulp — in it goes, whole. And yes, humans have ended up on the menu. There have been actual cases where full-grown adults were found inside these pythons. Inside. Let that sink in. Green Anaconda If the reticulated python is the longest, the green anaconda is the heaviest. Found in the Amazon and swampy parts of South America, this beefy beast can weigh more than 500 pounds. That's like trying to wrestle a grand piano. Anacondas spend a lot of time in water, where they sneak up on prey like caimans (mini-crocodiles), capybaras (giant rodents), and sometimes even jaguars. So yeah, humans? Not impossible. There are stories — still debated — of green anacondas attacking people. With the kind of strength and size they've got, it's definitely within the realm of possibility. You do not want to go swimming where one of these monsters is chilling. Burmese Python Originally from Southeast Asia, Burmese pythons have made themselves way too comfortable in Florida's Everglades. They're an invasive species there now, causing all kinds of problems for local wildlife. These snakes can grow over 20 feet long and weigh more than 200 pounds. They're stealthy, powerful, and crazy good hunters. While attacks on humans are rare, they've happened. Especially with kids or smaller adults. And in Florida, where people live close to the wild, close encounters aren't all that unheard of. African Rock Python Over in Africa, this python reigns supreme. African rock pythons are massive (up to 20 feet long!) and have a rep for being aggressive. They don't mess around. Unlike a lot of snakes that try to avoid humans, these ones are known for being bold. There have been multiple documented attacks — some fatal — in areas where people and snakes live close together. Basically, if it can fit in their mouth and they can squeeze it to death, it's dinner. Why would a snake even try to eat a human? It's not like snakes wake up craving people. But here's why it happens: Size match: Big snakes can only eat prey they can fit in their mouths. So they're looking for things about their width. Unfortunately, that can include children or smaller adults. These snakes are opportunistic. If the right moment presents itself — like someone alone, maybe asleep or distracted — they might go for it. We're in their space! As people build homes or farms near forests, rivers, and swamps, snake encounters go up. And sometimes, nature bites back. How do they even catch a human? Usually, it's a sneak attack. These snakes are masters of camouflage. They'll lie in wait, completely still, until something (or someone) gets close. Then — strike! They bite, grab on, and wrap their bodies around the prey. Within seconds, it's a deadly squeeze fest. Once the prey is still, they slowly start swallowing it whole, head first. It's not quick — but it's effective. Most of the time, they'll go for people who are asleep, too small to fight back, or near water where the snake can ambush them. Can they really kill people? Yep. They absolutely can. And sadly, there are real, confirmed cases of people being killed — and even eaten — by giant snakes. Remember, they're not venomous. It's all muscle. Once they start squeezing, it cuts off blood flow and air. People can pass out in minutes. If no one's around to help, it can turn fatal quickly. How to stay safe around giant snakes If you live or travel in places where big snakes might be hanging around, here's how to avoid becoming a snack: Don't wander alone in the jungle or swampy areas — especially at night. Be careful near rivers and lakes where big snakes love to hide. Keep an eye on kids and pets in snake-prone areas. Watch for signs — like snake tracks, shed skin, or slither marks. If you see a huge snake, don't play hero. Back away. Slowly. In case of an attack — fight to create space. Yell. Get help fast. Giant snakes like the reticulated python, green anaconda, Burmese python, and African rock python aren't just the stuff of nightmares — they're very real. They're rare, but deadly when things go wrong. So whether you're trekking through the Amazon or flipping channels on Animal Planet, just remember: nature's monsters don't always need CGI. Sometimes, they're out there… waiting in the tall grass.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Air quality alert: Breathing is not guaranteed as smoke from Canada's infernos chokes cities from Toronto to New York
After days of a heavy grey haze blanketing southern Canada, air‑quality alerts were lifted across most of Québec and Ontario on Sunday, June 8. Environment Canada reported that a shift in wind patterns and light rainfall pushed smoke eastward, lifting warnings over major cities like Toronto , Ottawa, and Montréal, but pockets of poor air remain east of Montréal, south of Québec City, and in northern Ontario toward the Manitoba border How it all started by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like War Thunder - Register now for free and play against over 75 Million real Players War Thunder Play Now Undo Over 200 active wildfires in Manitoba and Saskatchewan churned out massive smoke plumes since early June, forcing thousands to evacuate and creating hazy skies across six provinces and the Northwest Territories. Those plumes raced across Canada and into the Eastern US, sparking health alerts in New York and parts of the Midwest. Live Events The science of the smoke Wildfire smoke is rich in PM2.5, tiny particles that penetrate deep into the lungs and the bloodstream. Researchers warn that even brief exposure can trigger asthma attacks, heart problems, and headaches, while cumulative exposure may increase risks of lung cancer and stroke. Some scientists have also raised alarms about toxic metals like arsenic and lead, released when fires spread through mining‑contaminated soils, intensifying long‑term risks. The human toll For north Toronto kindergarten teacher Emily Chan, the sky "smelled like burning plastic," and many of her students complained of sore throats. She recalled, 'We kept windows shut and cancelled outdoor playtimes.' In Montréal, retiree Marc Lecavalier said he felt his chest tighten during walks on the Île de la Cité, opting instead to sit inside with filtered air. Across the US border, in upstate New York, air‑quality warnings persisted on Sunday despite slight improvements, with the Adirondacks reaching an AQI of 150, "unhealthy for sensitive groups," while Finger Lakes briefly hit levels considered unhealthy for all. What's next Environment Canada expects a low‑pressure system to move through the Prairies and into Manitoba and northwestern Ontario by Monday, and bring much-needed rain to douse the fires. But as long as wildfires continue, the risk remains. Health officials still advise those in affected zones to stay indoors, avoid strenuous activity, and wear N95 masks if they must go outside. Experts predict smoke events will become more frequent and severe as climate change fuels longer fire seasons. For now, Canadians and Americans are getting a reminder: clean air isn't guaranteed.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Who is Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to travel to the International Space Station?
India's next space hero is here. It's Shubhanshu Shukla . In a historic leap for India's space exploration, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is set to become the first Indian astronaut to travel to the International Space Station (ISS). Scheduled for launch on June 10, aboard SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket as part of Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), Shukla's journey will make history as he becomes the first Indian astronaut to travel to the ISS. What is Axiom Mission 4? Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) is a pioneering private spaceflight mission that will not only send India's first private astronaut to space but also mark the return to human spaceflight for Poland and Hungary, countries that have not had a government-sponsored mission in over 40 years. The mission will be led by former NASA astronaut Peggy Whitson, with Shubhanshu Shukla serving as the mission pilot. The crew will spend up to 14 days aboard the ISS, conducting scientific experiments, educational outreach, and commercial activities as part of their collaboration with NASA and ISRO. All eyes are now on the Ax-4 space mission, which is scheduled for June 10. Launch is targeted for 8:22 am ET, with a backup opportunity available on Wednesday, June 11 at 8:00 am. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Device Made My Power Bill Drop Overnight elecTrick - Save upto 80% on Power Bill Pre-Order Undo Early life and education Born in October 1985, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Shubhanshu Shukla's fascination with aviation began in his youth. Inspired by the 1999 Kargil War, he independently applied for and cleared the UPSC NDA examination. He completed his military training and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the National Defence Academy in 2005. Later, he pursued a Master of Technology in Aerospace Engineering from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, further solidifying his foundation in aerospace sciences. A distinguished career in the Indian Air Force (IAF) Commissioned into the Indian Air Force (IAF) in June 2006, Shukla quickly rose through the ranks, achieving the position of Group Captain by March 2024. With over 2,000 hours of flight experience, he has piloted various aircraft, including the Su-30 MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, Jaguar, Hawk, Dornier 228, and An-32. His expertise as a test pilot and combat leader highlights his exceptional skills and dedication to the IAF, and justifies the titles he has earned over the years – 'wicked smart', being one of them. The path to space: Gaganyaan and Axiom Mission 4 In 2019, Shukla was selected by the Institute of Aerospace Medicine (IAM) for India's Human Spaceflight Programme. He underwent rigorous training at the Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Russia, completing his basic training in 2021. After that, he attended advanced training at the Astronaut Training Facility in Bengaluru. In February 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Shukla as one of the four astronaut-designates for India's maiden human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan, scheduled for 2026. However, Shukla's journey to the ISS will occur earlier, as he has been selected as the pilot for Axiom Mission 4, a private spaceflight collaboration between NASA, SpaceX, and Axiom Space. Preparing for the historic mission To prepare for this historic mission, Shukla and his fellow astronauts underwent extensive training with international space agencies, including NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA), and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). They completed rigorous training at ESA's European Astronaut Centre in Cologne, Germany, where they learned about communication systems, emergency response procedures, and conducted research activities inside the Columbus module of the ISS. The training also included sessions at JAXA's Tsukuba Space Center in Japan, focusing on the Japanese Experiment Module (Kibo). Personal life Shubhanshu Shukla is married to Dr. Kamna Shukla, a dentist, and they have a four-year-old son. His father, Shambhu Dayal Shukla, is a retired government officer, while his mother, Asha Shukla, is a homemaker. He is the youngest of three siblings; his elder sister, Nidhi, holds an MBA degree, and his other elder sister, Suchi, works as a school teacher. In his leisure time, Shukla is known to enjoy physical exercise and reading books on science and space. He has recently developed an interest in horoscopes, despite identifying as agnostic. Carrying the legacy forward Shubhanshu Shukla, who goes by the nickname "Shuks", with the historic Ax-4 mission, is set to become the second Indian to travel to space, 41 years after his idol Rakesh Sharma undertook a spaceflight in 1984. Sharma made history on April 3, 1984, when he launched aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11 as part of the Intercosmos program. During his mission, he spent approximately 7 days, 21 hours, and 40 minutes in space, making him the first and only Indian national to achieve this feat. Since then, several individuals of Indian origin, like Kalpana Chawla, Sunita Williams , have traveled to space, but they were not Indian citizens at the time of their missions. Notably, Kalpana Chawla, Sunita Williams, and Raja Chari are astronauts of Indian descent who flew as part of NASA missions. Williams, amongst them, holds the record for the most spaceflights by an astronaut of Indian origin, having completed three missions. Both Williams and Chari have also conducted long-duration spaceflights. However, with the Ax-4 mission, Shukla is set to become the second Indian citizen to travel to space, and the first one to visit the ISS. This mission is a collaboration between NASA, SpaceX, and ISRO – which not only marks a significant chapter in global collaborative efforts, but also checks a historic milestone in India's space exploration conquests. From India to the ISS: Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's Wife Speaks Before Launch | I Witness
