Superbugs are not something out of a sci-fi movie.  They are real, they are scary, and they are one of the world’s most worrisome health challenges.  Superbugs are bacterial infections that have developed a resistance to antibiotics over time.  These infections are not only resistant to traditional antibiotics, but also tend to be much more severe and last longer.

What is a “superbug”?

When a bacterial infection has developed a resistance to common antibiotic treatments it is sometimes called a “superbug”. These infections often last longer, and are much more severe than infections that are not antibiotic-resistant. In high risk individuals such as young children and the elderly they can also be fatal.

How are bacteria becoming antibiotic-resistant?

Many illnesses such as the common cold, the flu, coughs, bronchitis, runny nose, etc. are caused by viruses and NOT bacteria. Antiobiotics are only helpful in illnesses caused by bacteria. The more times doctors prescribe an antibiotic for a viral illness it increases the chance of people getting an illness that is antibiotic-resistant.

What can I do to prevent problems?

A bacterial infection harbors billions of bacteria. Taking an antibiotic will kill those bacteria which are susceptible to its effect, and leave behind those resistant bacteria that the antibiotic couldn't kill. The remaining bacteria can survive and continue to grow. If these remaining bacteria spread from person to person, they may become the norm, and then all future infections stemming from this bacteria will be resistant to antibiotics. Make sure that you always complete a full dose of antibiotics. Even if you start to feel better, you must complete the full dosage or your illness could come back and be even stronger and more resistance to the medication. You should also never take any leftover antibiotics to treat a new illness. If it is a viral infection it won’t do any good. If it is a bacterial infection taking one or two doses will not fight off the bacteria and could make it more resistant in future illnesses.

There is currently no solution to the antibiotic resistance problem. The best way to ensure that you aren’t resistant to antibiotics, is to do everything you can not to get sick so that you won’t even have to worry about taking any antibiotics. Healthy lifestyle choices will help keep your body and your immune system working efficiently. Be sure you are eating a balanced diet, getting proper exercise and plenty of rest each night to avoid getting sick.