How and why does Antimicrobial Resistance occur?

Antibiotic resistance happens when bacteria alter in a sense that narrows the effectiveness of drugs, chemicals, or other agents intended to cure or prevent infections. instead, the bacteria live and proceed to multiply causing further damage.

What causes antimicrobial resistance?

The underlying cause of antibiotic resistance is antibiotic usage, or in some cases, misusage. When antibiotics are administered, some bacteria perish but resistant bacteria can live on and continue to breed. The overuse of antibiotics makes the bacteria increasingly able to resist. The more we use antibiotics, the higher the probability bacteria will develop resistance to them.

How to reduce the spread of antibiotic resistance

  • Avoid using antibiotics to treat viral infections, such as influenza, the common cold, a runny nose or a sore throat.
  • Administer antibiotics only when a doctor prescribes them and do not obtain them through other means
  • When antibiotics are prescribed to you, be sure to take the full prescription even if you think you're beginning to feel better.

Here is a video on Antimicrobial Resistance released by Public Health England

Useful resources for Antimicrobial Resistance

Antibiotic Guardian pdf

Health Education England - Antimicrobial Resistance

World Health Organisation - Antimicrobial Resistance