2025-05-26T06:04:45Z

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In a startling revelation, researchers from Israel have identified dangerous strains of antibiotic-resistant Vibrio bacteria in both the Mediterranean and Red Seas. This alarming discovery, announced by Tel Aviv University (TAU) on Sunday, has raised significant concerns regarding public health and marine ecosystems.

Vibrio bacteria are notorious for causing severe illnesses in humans, which can manifest as gastrointestinal problems, wound infections, and even ear infections. Beyond affecting humans, these bacteria pose a serious threat to marine life, with documented harm to corals and shellfish, according to a report by the Xinhua news agency.

One of the particularly concerning characteristics of Vibrio bacteria is their ability to share genetic material with one another. This means that when one strain develops harmful traits, it can effectively pass these traits on to other strains, amplifying the danger they pose. The escalating temperatures of ocean waters — primarily attributed to climate change — are enabling these bacteria to expand their reach, leading to increased infections among humans.

In their research, published in the scientific journal mSphere, the team from TAU conducted a thorough analysis of the genomes of 23 samples of Vibrio bacteria collected from the coastal waters of Tel Aviv and Eilat. Their findings unveiled a diverse array of toxins, secretion systems, and mobile genetic elements that are instrumental in promoting the bacteria's survivability and virulence.

The researchers discovered that at least 10 strains of bacteria were capable of inducing the death of immune cells, while at least 12 strains demonstrated the ability to intoxicate competing Vibrio strains, effectively ensuring their dominance in the environment. Alarmingly, when these bacteria were subjected to antibiotics typically used for treating Vibrio infections, many samples displayed a robust resistance, particularly to azithromycin, a common antibiotic.

Among the strains identified in the Red Sea was one that produces a toxin lethal to shrimp. This particular strain has wreaked havoc on shrimp farming industries globally, resulting in damages amounting to billions of U.S. dollars.

The research team emphasizes that the findings underscore the significant potential of Vibrio bacteria to cause disease in the coastal waters of Israel. Consequently, they stress the urgent need for ongoing environmental monitoring to effectively track and manage these emerging threats to public health and marine biodiversity.

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