Indian scientists make affordable dipstick test to track AMR in sewage

Indian scientists have developed an innovative and cost-effective dipstick test aimed at monitoring antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in sewage systems, a critical public health concern. Given India's large population and diverse geographical landscape, traditional methods of tracking AMR can be both ethically challenging and financially burdensome. The new assay, which can be produced at a unit cost of approximately Rs 400-550, offers a practical solution for widespread adoption across the nation. By utilizing sewage sampling, researchers can ethically gather data to understand the prevalence of AMR, thus enabling timely interventions to combat its spread. This advancement not only highlights the ingenuity of Indian scientific research but also underscores the urgent need for affordable testing technologies in the fight against AMR, which poses significant risks to global health security.