Experts are increasingly sounding the alarm about antibiotic resistance. In fall of 2024, medical journal The Lancet made headlines with its projection that more than 39 million people will die between now and 2050 due to antibiotic-resistant infections.
Health care providers and policymakers play key roles in fighting antibiotic resistance, sometimes called antimicrobial resistance (AMR). At the same time, everyday people also can take steps to combat the problem.
“Bacteria evolve and adapt to antibiotics, which means another medication may be necessary to fight a disease. Some bacteria have evolved to a point where none of the antibiotics we have will work on them,” says Dr. Mark Norris, a Family Medicine Physician at ThedaCare Physicians-Appleton North. “That’s why we all have to work together to fight antibiotic resistance.”
Large-Scale Problem
Around the world, drug-resistant pathogens kill 1.3 million people annually and contribute to the deaths of nearly 5 million others, according to the United Nations. To draw more attention to the concern, health experts discussed global antibiotic resistance during a U.N. event last fall. The World Health Organization has also called the issue a top public health threat.
Antimicrobials include antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitics. These medicines can prevent and treat infectious diseases in humans, animals, and plants, according to the WHO.
When bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites no longer respond to antimicrobial medicines, AMR can occur. As a result, certain infections can become difficult or impossible to treat. This increases the risk of disease spread, severe illness, disability, and death.
AMR is a problem for countries around the world, regardless of income levels, the WHO states. People with serious underlying health conditions and those living in countries with fewer resources are more vulnerable to the risks of AMR.
Proper Use of Antibiotics
Using antibiotics properly is the top way to avoid the development of drug-resistant bacteria, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The agency recommends following the advice of the medical provider who prescribes a medication, including taking all the prescribed doses.
People often feel better after a couple of days taking their medication and may decide to stop, Dr. Norris says. However, the bacteria may not have died off completely, so the chances of reinfection increase.
“Also, don’t save any medication for future use,” Dr. Norris says. “Just because a medication helped you feel better this time, that doesn’t mean it will work the next time. Don’t take any antibiotic without your doctor’s knowledge.”
In addition, it’s important to refrain from sharing antibiotics. Doing so is dangerous for all parties involved.
Finally, it’s important to understand that antibiotics can’t treat certain illnesses.
“Antibiotics don’t work on viruses,” Dr. Norris says. “If you take antibiotics when they’re not needed, it can make them less effective the next time you do need them. Trust your provider’s advice when it comes to antibiotic use.”
Stopping the Spread
Beyond limiting antibiotic use, you can take additional steps to stop the spread of illnesses. This can help reduce the need for antibiotics in the first place. Practicing good hygiene, getting recommended vaccines, and following safe food handling and cooking guidelines can help you stay healthy.
Hygiene Helps
Practice good hygiene to avoid infections. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This is especially important after you use the bathroom; before, during, and after food prep; and before and after eating.
If you’re sick, cover your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing to prevent others from getting sick.
While respiratory infections garner a lot of attention, cuts also can become infected and require antibiotics. To avoid skin infections, keep wounds clean and covered until healed.
Best Shot
Staying up to date on vaccines helps protect you from preventable diseases that can spread easily. The flu vaccine, for example, can help you avoid catching the virus and keep you healthier. Ask your health care team about recommended vaccines.
Food Safety
Bacteria often spread through food preparation, so it’s vital to prepare food safely. The CDC recommends these four steps to fend off foodborne infections:
- Wash your hands before and after touching raw meat, chicken, eggs, and seafood. Wash countertops and cooking utensils after preparing each food item.
- Separate raw meets from other foods. Germs from raw meat and poultry, for example, can spread easily to vegetables and fruit. Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and other food.
- Cook foods to safe temperatures. Follow these guidelines from foodsafety.gov.
- Chill leftovers and other foods promptly.
Do Your Part
We can all play a role in reducing the threat of antibiotic resistance.
“In addition to using antibiotics properly, practice good hygiene, stay on top of vaccines, and prepare food carefully,” Dr. Norris said. “The healthier you are, the fewer antibiotics you’ll need, and the less chance you’ll have of developing antibiotic resistance.”
