The world is running out of antibiotics that are effective against resistant bacteria and WHO has raised alarm over the lack of new antibiotics…
Antibiotics resistance happens when bacteria becomes immune to existing drugs. Bacteria have learnt to fight back, building resistance to the same drugs over the decades. Bacterial infections can become untreatable, to become “superbugs” – one of the biggest health threats.
Common infections are becoming difficult to treat or even untreatable, leading to longer treatment periods and hospital stays.
The Lancet, a leading medical journal estimated that 4.95 million deaths worldwide in 2019 were associated with AMR (Antimicrobial Resistance). The main cause of AMR is the overuse and misuse of antibiotics.
It is interesting to note that in a survey jointly conducted by academic researchers published in 2022, nearly eight in 10 people in Singapore erroneously believe that humans can develop resistance to antibiotics. In fact, it is the bacteria that become resistant to antibiotics, and this is known as antibiotic resistance. The person or the animal does not develop resistance to antibiotics.
Another myth is “Antibiotics resistance is a problem only for people who take antibiotics regularly”. The truth is drug resistant bacteria can spread from person to person, and it can affect anyone at any time.
Alternative antibiotics, or even “last-line antibiotics” may have to be used, but these tend to be less effective, have more side effects, and are more expensive.
We need to constantly nourish our immune systems with wholesome plant foods as the immune system is the best doctor. When our immune systems are strong, they can help us fight against most form of bacteria.
