Antibiotic resistant bacteria seem to be getting more prevalent. Health agencies offer a number of tips for avoiding the production of more drug-resistant strains and avoiding infection with already existing populations:
- Avoid the overuse or misuse of antibiotics.
- As a patient: Take the complete prescribed course as directed by the prescribing doctor, even if you feel better before it is done.
- As a doctor: Prescribe antibiotics only for bacterial infections. Use the drugs, dosage, and duration of use that are best suited for the infection.
- Avoid contact with known bacterial infections.
- Practice appropriate hygiene practices: wash hands regularly and disinfect shared items and surfaces, but avoid the overuse of antibacterial cleaners. Households without at-risk individuals should not use antibacterial soaps or cleansers.
For more information, see the
CDC fact sheet on antibiotic resistance and
GetSmart fast facts.
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