Texas cattle ranches could be generating antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which are becoming airborne. These airborne bacteria are potentially hazardous microorganisms. Particulate matter in the area was analyzed by Texas Tech University researchers. They found both antibiotics and antibiotic-resistant bacteria in samples taken downwind from cattle ranches.

According to investigators, populated areas could get affected by this material as wind could carry it to these areas. This could interfere in treatments for potentially dangerous diseases. More than 80% of all antibiotics, which are sold in the United States, are used in cattle to extend lives and make yields better.

The ranches, which were examined by researchers, were located within 200 miles of the city of Lubbock. For over a period of six months, researchers took samples from these tranches. The study concentrated on feedlots in the South Plains and Panhandle of Texas. Cattle are fed prior to bringing them to market, so they get exposed to huge quantities of antibiotics.

According to environmental toxicology researchers at Texas Tech University, they think that the study is one of the first to identify and quantify antibiotics and antibiotic-resistant genes, which are linked to airborne PM emitted from beef cattle feed yards.

Approximately 2 million Americans get infected by bacteria every year. The bacteria are resistant to many treatments and 23,000 die due to these diseases. Health care settings, like nursing homes and hospitals see most of the deaths from infections by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

It was observed by researchers that the emergence of bacteria resistant to antibiotics is usually associated with drugs used in commercial cattle stocks. The Food and Drug Administration announced new guidelines in 2013, intended to cut the use of antibiotics in cattle.