Antibiotics vs. Bacteria: The Battle Against Resistance

🦠Antimicrobial resistance is a major global concern, with bacteria developing the ability to resist antibiotics.

💀Antimicrobial resistant infections cause millions of illnesses and tens of thousands of deaths each year.

🧬Resistance occurs due to overuse and misuse of antibiotics, leading to DNA changes in bacteria.

🤝Preventing infections through proper hygiene and immunizations can help reduce the need for antibiotics.

🔬Ongoing research aims to find new antibiotics, boost the immune system, and improve diagnostic tests.

What is antimicrobial resistance?

—Antimicrobial resistance refers to the ability of bacteria to resist the effects of antibiotics, making infections more difficult to treat.

How many people are affected by antimicrobial resistant infections?

—Over two million people in the US alone get sick from antimicrobial resistant infections each year, resulting in at least 23,000 deaths.

What causes resistance to antibiotics?

—Resistance arises due to overuse and misuse of antibiotics, such as not completing prescribed courses and using antibiotics in agriculture.

What can individuals do to fight resistance?

—Individuals can help prevent resistance by using antibiotics appropriately, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding infections.

What research efforts are underway to combat resistance?

—Research is focused on finding new antibiotics, boosting the immune system, developing targeted diagnostic tests, and more.

00:00Antimicrobial resistance is a growing problem, with bacteria developing resistance to antibiotics.

03:28Using fewer antibiotics and taking them as prescribed can help prevent resistance.

04:36Research is being conducted to find new antibiotics and improve diagnostic tests.

05:13Collaborative efforts are needed to stay ahead of antimicrobial resistance.