Australian gulls found to carry antibiotic-resistant superbugs

Researchers say 'eye-opening' findings that 20% of silver gulls nationwide carry pathogenic bacteria should be a wake-up call

Australian gulls are carrying superbugs resistant to antibiotics, raising fears that disease-causing bacteria may spread from the birds to humans, livestock and pets.

A team of scientists led by researchers at Perth's Murdoch University found more than 20% of silver gulls nationwide were carrying pathogenic bacteria, such as E coli, that are resistant to drugs. E coli can cause urinary tract infections, life-threatening sepsis and meningitis.