Scientists take aim at airborne antibiotic-resistant bacteria downwind of feedlots 

In a study slated for publication next month, scientists claim they have proven DNA from antibiotic-resistant bacteria in cattle feedlots is airborne. By comparing dust samples taken both upwind and downwind from operations in the Texas Panhandle, the biologists claim they found a higher percentage of DNA sequences from the antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the samples taken downwind. However, representatives of the cattle industry have rebuffed the findings, deeming them partial and inconclusive. A feedlot veterinarian who teaches at West Texas A&M University said the study mischaracterizes the threat to humans of bacteria that have grown resistant to antibiotics used on cattle. Many of the antibiotics used on livestock are not used on humans, he explained. “The judicious use of antibiotics as we are using them today has very little risk to human health.” Read more at The Texas Tribune…