Antibiotic resistance
Antibiotic resistance is the ability of microorganisms, such as bacteria, to withstand the effects of an antibiotic to which they were once sensitive. This phenomenon is a significant concern in the field of medicine due to its potential to limit the effectiveness of antibiotics.
Overview[edit | edit source]
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria change in response to the use of these medicines. Bacteria, not humans or animals, become antibiotic-resistant. These bacteria may infect humans and animals, and the infections they cause are harder to treat than those caused by non-resistant bacteria.
Mechanisms of Resistance[edit | edit source]
There are several ways that bacteria can acquire resistance to antibiotics. These include mutations in their own genetic material, or the acquisition of resistance genes from other bacteria through horizontal gene transfer. The latter can occur via plasmids, small pieces of DNA that can be transferred between bacteria.
Impact on Public Health[edit | edit source]
Antibiotic resistance poses a significant threat to public health. It can lead to higher medical costs, prolonged hospital stays, and increased mortality. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified antibiotic resistance as one of the biggest threats to global health, food security, and development today.
Prevention and Control[edit | edit source]
Preventing and controlling the spread of antibiotic resistance requires a coordinated effort. This includes appropriate use of antibiotics in both humans and animals, improved infection prevention and control in healthcare settings, and investment in research and development of new antibiotics, vaccines, and diagnostic tools.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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