Posted on: 23 May 2025
As West Yorkshire’s stunning rivers, reservoirs and inland beaches grow in popularity, we’re urging water lovers to stay aware of a growing invisible threat - antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
From paddling in the River Wharfe to wild swimming at Lumb Falls or Gaddings Dam, more people are connecting with nature for both leisure and wellbeing. But with this increased interest comes a rise in exposure to polluted waters - some of which may contain bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics.
What is AMR and why should swimmers care?
Antimicrobial resistance happens when bacteria adapt to survive antibiotics that would normally kill them. These superbugs make infections harder to treat and can be especially dangerous if picked up from contaminated water.
Sarah Chadwick, Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Programme Manager said: “We cannot tell just by looking whether water contains high levels of bacteria.
“Even clean-looking rivers can carry organisms that cause infections we no longer have effective treatments for.”
Pollution and how it fuels AMR
AMR bacteria thrive in polluted environments. Heavy rainfall often triggers sewer overflows, releasing untreated waste into rivers. Agricultural runoff brings both antibiotics and resistant bacteria into water systems. Microplastics, discarded medicines and chemicals from industry add to the problem, creating ideal conditions for resistant bacteria to multiply and spread.
Even in seemingly untouched areas like national parks, pressure from summer tourism can overwhelm septic systems, further contaminating local waterways.
What are the risks for swimmers and paddlers?
Outdoor recreation in polluted water can lead to:
- upset stomachs from accidentally swallowing contaminated water
- skin and ear infections, particularly if you have open cuts
- rare but serious hard-to-treat infections caused by AMR bacteria
- colonisation, where resistant bacteria live in your gut without symptoms but may cause future health issues or be passed to others
Four ways to stay safe in the water
- Pick the right spot: check water quality using resources like the Environment Agency’s bathing water quality pages or local wild swimming guides. Avoid areas near pollution or signs of contamination like foam, sewage, or algal blooms
- Mind the weather: rain increases the risk of sewage overflows and runoff. Avoid swimming for at least 48 hours after heavy rain
- Protect yourself: avoid swallowing water, keep your head above water and cover any cuts with waterproof dressings. And wash hands or apply hand sanitiser after your swim
- Support clean water efforts: you should always take your antibiotics as prescribed. However, if for any reason you have some left over, take them to your community pharmacy for safe disposal. Never pour away or flush unused antibiotics. Join initiatives like Surfers Against Sewage or The Rivers Trust to improve water quality and raise awareness about AMR. Small actions, like advocating for better wastewater management or taking part in local clean-up events, can make a big difference
With simple precautions and better awareness, we can keep enjoying the physical and mental health benefits of freshwater recreation - without compromising our safety.
Together, we can protect our precious waterways and ensure they remain clean, safe and accessible for generations to come.