Surfers were particularly vulnerable to bacteria resistant to antibiotics

A study involving 150 British surfers showed that antibiotic-resistant bacteria were present in the intestines of athletes three times more often than in the control group.

Researchers from Exeter University have found that people who regularly surf are much more likely to become owners of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the intestine.

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria were found in the intestines in 9% of surfers (13 out of 143) and 3% in the control group (4 of 130). Also, surfers were 4 times more likely to detect bacteria that contained mobile genetic elements.

According to researchers, surfers were more vulnerable due to the fact that during training, they more often accidentally swallow the water. In comparison with those who bathe in water bodies, 10 times more water enters their body.

Scientists do not urge athletes to give up training: the results of their research rather talk about the importance of thorough water purification.