Community Corner

Nation's First Case Of Drug-Resistant 'Superbug' In PA

The nation's first case of an antibiotic-resistant "superbug" was found in a woman in Pennsylvania, the Governor has confirmed.

The nation's first case of an antibiotic resistant "superbug" was found in a woman in Pennsylvania, the Governor has confirmed.

Governor Tom Wolf on Thursday confirmed the state has case of plasmid-mediated colistin resistance (mcr-1).

He says the Pennsylvania Department of Heath "immediately" began working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as the United States Department of Defense, to coordinate an "appropriate and collaborative" response.

Find out what's happening in Chestnut Hill-Mt. Airyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Wolf said officials are taking the development "very seriously."

"We will take necessary actions to prevent mcr-1 from becoming a widespread problem with potentially serious consequences. The safety of Pennsylvanians is our utmost priority," he said.

Find out what's happening in Chestnut Hill-Mt. Airyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Mcr-1 is often referred to as a "superbug" that is resistant to anti-biotics. It is a mutant E. coli germ, according to NBC News.

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports the 49-year-old infected patient sought medical care last month due to a urinary tract infection. Her location was not disclosed.

The woman said she did not have a travel history within the past five months, the Inquirer reported.

This is a developing story, check back for updates.

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