Antibiotics apply strong selective pressure. Bacteria with resistance genes survive and spread, especially when antibiotics are overused or used incorrectly.
Resistance can arise through mutation or by acquiring genes from other bacteria via plasmids. Hospitals, agriculture, and wastewater systems can all contribute to the spread of resistant strains.
Solutions include better stewardship, rapid diagnostics, infection control, and development of new antimicrobials and alternative treatments.
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