antimicrobial resistance
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, evolve to resist the effects of medications designed to kill or inhibit them. This means that common infections can become harder to treat, leading to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs, and increased mortality.
The overuse and misuse of antibiotics in humans and animals contribute significantly to the development of AMR. When these drugs are used unnecessarily, or not taken as prescribed, it allows resistant strains to thrive and spread, making it crucial to use antimicrobials responsibly to preserve their effectiveness.