Why is resistance a problem?

If antibiotics are used too often or taken incorrectly, more and more types of bacteria will be able to resist the effects of antibiotics. In the worst-case scenario, it may eventually no longer be possible to treat bacterial infections. If that happens, an infection that is easy to treat now could lead to serious illness. That is why it is important for doctors to only prescribe antibiotics when it is absolutely necessary, and for patients to use antibiotics correctly.

Higher risk for impaired immunity

Antibiotic resistance is a bigger risk for people with impaired immunity, such as hospital patients. They are more likely to develop a bacterial infection that can sometimes lead to severe symptoms. If resistant bacteria are the cause of these symptoms, then the standard treatment will not help. At that point, doctors have to look for an alternative course of treatment that will be effective.

Treating an infection involving resistant bacteria

An infection involving resistant bacteria can be treated, but it is more complicated that an infection involving ‘normal’ bacteria. First the doctor has to have the laboratory run tests to see which antibiotics can still kill the bacteria. Then the doctor prescribes the effective antibiotic. After treatment, the doctor checks if the bacteria are gone. Sometimes more than one course of antibiotics is needed.