Taiwan

Taiwan detects first case of 'superbug'

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-10-04 21:46

TAIPEI - Taiwan's disease control bureau said Monday it has detected its first case of a multi-drug resistant bacteria "superbug," a bacteria carrying the New Delhi metallo-lactamase-1 (NDM-1) gene, found in a wounded Taiwan cameraman just back from India.

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The cameraman was shot and wounded last month in India, and he was found carrying an antibiotics-resistant bacteria containing NDM-1 in his intestines after clinical tests, though he developed no symptoms, the bureau said.

The cameraman is recovering and has been discharged from hospital, according to the bureau.

The bureau said the case was strictly monitored during the cameraman's journey from India to the island, and officials ruled out risks from the spread of the disease.

NDM-1 is most prevalent in South Asia, but has also been found in Britain, the Netherlands, Australia, Canada, the United States and Sweden.

Taiwan's disease control bureau listed NDM-1 as a communicable disease last month, requiring local hospitals to immediately report any suspected cases, especially those in which the patient previously received medical treatment in India or Pakistan.