How to Protect Against Antibiotic Resistance

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By JFL
eHow Contributing Writer

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The Centers for Disease Control has called antibiotic resistance an urgent public health problem. Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria change or evolve in a way that makes drugs and other chemicals ineffective against curing infections. When bacteria become resistant, they become dangerous to the person who has the infection, increasing the risk of complications and death, and spread more easily throughout communities. Incorrect use and overuse of antibiotics are the main causes of drug-resistant bacteria. Unlike other kinds of medications, the way one person uses antibiotics has a great impact on the rest of the community.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Do

Step 1

Do take antibiotics exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Step 2

Finish the full course of prescription even if you feel better before using all of the medication.
Step 3

Wash your hands often with plain soap and water. Good hygiene is the first line of defense against many infections.
Step 4

Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered to prevent infection.

Don't

Step 1

Don't take someone else's antibiotics.
Step 2

Don't take antibiotics for a viral infection such as colds and the flu. Antibiotics can't kill viruses.
Step 3

Don't save antibiotics to use later or to share with others.
Step 4

Don't insist on antibiotics when your doctor says no.