Superbugs on the Rise: The Fight against Antibiotic Resistance
Antibiotics have long been in use since the discovery of penicillin in 1928 by Sir Alexander Fleming. Today, some super-bugs have become resistant to multiple antibiotics, rendering them ineffective. This ultimately makes bacterial infections harder to treat, and also increases the risk of severe illness, longer hospitalisations and death (WHO, 2024). It comes to no surprise that antibiotic resistance is considered as one of the most serious global public health threats of this century (Prestinaci et al. 2015; European Commission, 2024).
One of the most common issues which contributes to antibiotic resistance is the overuse of broad spectrum antibiotics. The National AMR committee of Malta reports that the vast majority of respiratory infections are of a viral nature. This means that antibiotics are ineffective against these types of infections as viral infections may be effectively treated with symptomatic control therapy, as well as anti-viral therapy on an as required basis (NAMRCM, 2024). This is why it is very important that individuals visit their doctor before taking any antibiotics, so as to avoid the misuse or overuse of these medications, which in the long run, can cause more harm than benefit to the general population. Furthermore, sharing of antibiotics between friends and family members is highly discouraged as these persons may not require the same type of treatment. Moreover, it is of utmost importance that a course of antibiotics is completed in full and not stopped prematurely, even if one is feeling better. Stopping a course of antibiotic earlier than prescribed may increase the chances for the bacteria to develop resistance against that particular antibiotic, making it harder to treat.
Antibiotic resistance is an ever-increasing threat that needs to be combated by individuals from all walks of life, whether they are a patient, a healthcare professional or a stakeholder. The fight against antibiotic resistance is one that cannot be lost.
References
European Commission (n.d.). EU Action on Antimicrobial Resistance. Health.ec.Europe.eu. Retrieved December 12, 2024, from EU Action on Antimicrobial Resistance – European Commission
National Antimicrobial Resistance Committee (n.d.). Antibiotic Insights. Health.gov.mt. Retrieved December 12, 2024, from National Antimicrobial Resistance Committee – saħħa
Prestinaci, F., Pezzotti, P., & Pantosti, A. (2015). Antimicrobial resistance: A global multifaceted phenomenon. Pathogens and Global Health, 109(7), 309-318. Antimicrobial resistance: a global multifaceted phenomenon: Pathogens and Global Health: Vol 109 , No 7 – Get Access
WHO International (n.d.). Antimicrobial resistance. Who.int. Retrieved December 12, 2024, from Antimicrobial resistance
Above article provided by the collaboration of Dr Georgiana Farrugia Bonnici – MD, MSc Family Medicine, BSc (Hons). Radiography
Diplomas in Mindful Mental Health, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Nutrition & Dietetics, Homeopathy & Reflexology, Creative Writing & Interior Design
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