Prevention of Antibiotic resistance / Antibiotic Misuse - Abuse

are resistant to one of the first-line drugs (rifampicin, isoniazid, ethambutol, streptomycin).5 Resistance is emerging due to the increasing exposure of microorganisms to antimicrobial agents. Exposure of microbes to antimicrobials tempt them to develop strategies to survive in the hostile environment and become resistant. Pressure on the bacteria to mutate and become “hardy” develops due to (i) inappropriate and excessive use of antibiotics in treating infection, (ii) widespread use of antibiotics in animal husbandry and (iii) use of antimicrobials / antiseptic agents in agriculture and for domestic purposes. Once resistance is established, it cannot be reversed, but proper use of antibiotics minimizes the flourishing of resistant strains. Therefore, measures should be taken to promote appropriate prescribing and minimizing the development and spread of resistant bacteria. FActorS leAdIng to AntIbIotIc reSIStAnce