A recent study presented at ASM Microbe 2026 in Washington, D.C., reveals alarming public health risks associated with sewage overflows in homes, particularly in Maryland. The research, led by Nick An, Ph.D., from the University of Maryland, analyzed 107 samples from 86 homes and found that 46% contained Enterococci bacteria, commonly associated with fecal contamination. Notably, 21% of homes had E. faecalis and 27% had E. faecium, both of which can lead to serious infections. The study also identified antibiotic-resistant Enterococci in over 33% of homes, with more than 10% of homes harboring multidrug-resistant strains, complicating treatment options. Homes that experienced sewage or water events within the past month showed a threefold increase in multidrug-resistant bacteria. This research highlights the urgent need for investment in water and sewer infrastructure to mitigate the risks posed by these bacteria, especially as extreme weather events become more frequent. Further sampling is planned to continue assessing the impact of sewage overflows on public health.