Learn About Antimicrobial Resistance

Background on Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotics, also known as antimicrobial drugs, are drugs that fight infections caused by bacteria. After their discovery in the 1940s they transformed medical care and dramatically reduced illness and death from infectious diseases. However, over the decades the bacteria that antibiotics control have developed resistance to these drugs. Today, virtually all important bacterial that cause infections in the United States and throughout the world are becoming resistant to antibiotics.

Antibiotic resistance can cause significant danger and suffering for children and adults who have common infections, once easily treatable with antibiotics.

Antibiotic Resistance

Overuse and misuse of antibiotics promote the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria change in some way that reduces or eliminates the effectiveness of drugs, chemicals or other agents designed to cure or prevent infections. The bacteria survive and continue to multiply causing more harm. Widespread use of antibiotics promotes the spread of antibiotic resistance. While antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, they are not effective against viral infections like the common cold, most sore throats and the flu.

 Smart use of antibiotics is the key to controlling the spread of resistance.

Last Updated 5/5/06