Tiny bacteria. Giant problem.
There was a time when tuberculosis was an epidemic. When mothers & babies would routinely die during childbirth & even an infected paper-cut could kill. All before antibiotics were invented.
Antibiotics fight bacterial infections, not viral infections & have been saving lives for over 75 years But a growing number of bacteria have become resistant to antibiotics. Which means we have a big problem. As common infections become more difficult or impossible to treat.
The World Health Organization warns that antibiotic resistance is one of the greatest threats to human health. With estimates saying antibiotic-resistant superbugs may kill up to 10 million people a year by 2050.
We all need to pull together to combat this global problem.
Doctors need to prescribe antibiotics appropriately and as patients we should:
- Only take antibiotics as prescribed and directed by your doctor.
- Not expect antibiotics for viral infections like cold and flu.
- Practice good hygiene, like washing your hands to stop the spread of bacteria.
- Learn more about antibiotic resistance & what you can do to combat it.
