Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotic resistance has been called one of the world's most pressing public health problems. Today, virtually all important bacterial infections in the United States and throughout the world are becoming resistant. Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria change in some way that reduces or eliminates the effectiveness of drugs, chemicals, or other agents designed to cure or prevent infections. The bacteria survive and continue to multiply causing more harm. Widespread use of antibiotics promotes the spread of antibiotic resistance. While antibiotics should be used to treat bacterial infections, they are not effective against viral infections like the common cold, most sore throats, and the flu. More information is available at: http://www.cdc.gov/drugresistance/community/

Fact Sheets
Bronchitis Fact Sheet (76 KB)
Runny Nose Fact Sheet (80 KB)
Sinusitis Fact Sheet (76 KB)
Skin Infections Fact Sheet (88 KB)
Ear Infection Fact Sheet (76 KB)
Sore Throat Fact Sheet (80 KB)