Understanding superbugs: How antibiotic misuse fuels a deadly epidemic
Siddhartha Jana
A recent study predicts that antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) pathogens could result in over 39 million deaths by 2050, with a total of 169 million linked to drug-resistant infections.
Source: Canva
Superbugs, which are microorganisms that resist medications, develop resistance through genetic mutations often exacerbated by the overuse or misuse of antibiotics.
Source: Canva
Common infections, like pneumonia and urinary tract infections, may become harder or impossible to treat due to the failure of existing antibiotics.
Source: Canva
Superbugs emerge when microorganisms adapt to survive against drugs, a process driven by unnecessary prescriptions and misuse of antibiotics in healthcare and agriculture.
Source: Canva
The rise of superbugs presents a significant public health threat, turning treatable infections into life-threatening diseases, particularly affecting vulnerable populations.
Source: Canva
Limited treatment options exist for superbug infections, as the development of new antimicrobial drugs has slowed, leaving fewer effective treatments available.
Source: Canva
To reduce the risk of superbug infections, individuals should use antibiotics responsibly, practice good hygiene, stay updated on vaccinations, and choose antibiotic-free food products.
Source: Canva
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