Phage Hope: Combating a Deadly Drug-Resistant Bacteria Linked to Recalled Eye Drops

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Three people have died due to a drug-resistant bacteria called Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which has been linked to recalled eye drops. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced on Tuesday that a total of 68 people across 16 states have been infected. Eight of these patients have lost their vision, and four have had their eyeballs removed.

The eye drops were manufactured by Global Pharma Healthcare Private Limited in India and were sold online, in stores, and through ophthalmologist offices. Three of their eye products have been recalled. The P. aeruginosa strain involved in these cases is resistant to 12 antibiotics. However, researchers at the University of California, San Diego, have discovered a bacteriophage that could potentially combat the bacteria. Bacteriophages, or “phages,” are viruses that attack drug-resistant bacteria.

The university’s Center for Innovative Phage Applications has previously developed therapies to treat patients with drug-resistant infections. It is unclear how many patients have been treated with the newly identified phage for this specific bacteria, and the center has not yet responded to requests for comment.

In separate incidents, two additional eye products from different manufacturers have also been recalled due to contamination, as reported by CBS News.

Key Takeaways in a Nutshell – Health Newstrack

– Three people have died and 68 have been infected by a drug-resistant bacteria, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, linked to recalled eye drops.

– The P. aeruginosa strain is resistant to 12 antibiotics, but researchers have discovered a bacteriophage that may potentially treat the bacteria.

– The University of California, San Diego’s Center for Innovative Phage Applications has previously developed therapies for drug-resistant infections.


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