Scientists warn that there is a risk of incurable superbugs uploaded from dogs to their owners.

Research reveals a “nightmare scenario”, that is, the spread of antibiotic resistance genes to humans, The Telegraph reports.

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The mcr-1 gene was first discovered in China in 2015, and it can be passed to humans through a bed with a dog or through a pet basket.

It is resistant to the antibiotic colistin, which is used to treat bacterial infections that cannot be resolved by other drugs.

Scientists warn that excessive use of colistin, especially in meat animals, may trigger mutant genes that make the drug ineffective.

Antimicrobial resistance causes approximately 700,000 deaths each year, and it is estimated that by 2050, if no further action is taken, it will cause approximately 10 million deaths each year.

Dog worm phobia

The mcr-1 gene is present in the intestines and is spread through tiny particles of feces.

A study by the University of Lisbon collected samples from 126 healthy people from 80 families who lived with 102 cats and dogs.

Eight dogs and four people were found to carry bacteria including mcr-1.

In two families, the mcr-1 gene was found in the dog and the owner.

The results of the study were announced at the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases this weekend.

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Dr. Juliana Menezes, who led the research, said: “If bacteria that are resistant to all drugs acquire this resistance gene, they will become incurable. This is a situation that we must avoid at all costs.

“We know that overuse of antibiotics can lead to drug resistance, so the responsible use of antibiotics is crucial, not only in medicine, but also in veterinary medicine and agriculture.”

At the same time, another Portuguese study found that raw dog food is the main source of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Researchers at the University of Porto analyzed a series of dog food and found that 54% of dog food contained enterococci.

Two-fifths of cases are resistant to strong antibiotics.

Dr. Anna Freitas, who conducted this research, said: “The close contact between humans and dogs and the commercialization of research brands in different countries constitute an international public health risk.

“European authorities must raise awareness of the potential health risks of raw pet food and dog food manufacturing, including the need to review ingredient selection and hygiene practices.

“Dog owners should wash their hands with soap and water immediately after handling pet food after picking up feces.”