Antibiotic resistance – bacteria fight

More and more infections such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, blood poisoning, and gonorrhea are increasingly difficult to treat because antibiotics are less effective because they are overused.

If bacteria carry several resistance genes, they are called multiresisten or superbug. The new mechanism of resistance in bacteria appears and spreads globally, threatening our ability to treat common infectious diseases. Without immediate action, we are heading for an post-antibiotic era where common infections and minor injuries can once again kill.

Antibiotic resistance

Antibiotics are used to prevent and treat bacterial infections – not viral infections. Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria change in response to antibiotic use, becoming resistant to them. Bacteria, not humans or animals, become resistant to antibiotics.

Bacteria fight

Using antibiotics for viral infections causes antibiotic resistance

Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections such as the common cold, flu, sore throat, bronchitis, and many sinus and ear infections. The widespread use of antibiotics for these diseases is an example of how excessive use of antibiotics can increase the spread of antibiotic resistance.

In countries that do not have standard treatment guidelines, antibiotics are often given excessively by health workers and veterinarians and are overused by the public. There are countries where antibiotics can be purchased for non-prescription human or animal use which makes the emergence and spread of antibiotic resistance worse.

What can be done about antibiotic resistance?

The world must immediately change the way it is used and use antibiotics. Even if new drugs are developed, without behavioral changes, antibiotic resistance will remain a major threat.

What can you do to control the spread of antibiotic resistance

• Only use antibiotics if prescribed by a certified health professional.
• Never ask for antibiotics if your health worker says you don't need them.
• Always finish your antibiotics.
• Always follow the advice of your health worker when using antibiotics.
• Don't use it once or use leftover antibiotics.
• Prevent infection by washing your hands regularly, preparing food hygienically, avoiding close contact with sick people, practicing safer sex, and keeping vaccinations up to date.

NOTE: Antibiotic resistance