Antibiotic-resistant E.coli bugs detected around UK bathing waters pose 'risk of exposure' to holiday-makers, say researchers

Swimmers and surfers are most at risk from the bacteria because they swallow more water than other beach users

Antibiotic-resistant E.coli bugs have been detected for the first time in bathing waters around the UK (Getty)

Antibiotic-resistant E.coli bugs have been detected for the first time in bathing waters around the UK and pose “a potential risk of exposure” to holiday-makers, researchers have warned.

Swimmers and surfers are most at risk from the bacteria because they swallow more water than other beach users.

While resistant E.coli strains detected made up just 0.12 per cent of the total, researchers are concerned because it represents another potential area of exposure. Two decades ago E.coli resistant to third-generation cephalosporin antibiotics (3GCs) were not present in coastal waters.

However, the researchers, whose report was published in the journal Environment International, said concerns for human health were not so great yet that people needed to stay away from coastal resorts.

Anne Leonard, one of the scientists who carried out the study, said: “We’re not recommending that people stop visiting the beach. This kind of research will help us ensure people can still make the most of our coastal resources.”