CIDRAP News: Study cites ‘contagion’ as main factor in antimicrobial resistance levels
“A new study by a team of international infectious disease researchers suggests that antibiotic consumption is not the biggest factor driving the global spread of antimicrobial resistance. A bigger factor, according to the study, is ‘contagion,’ the spread of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and resistance genes in people, animals, and the environment. Although antibiotic use starts the process, the authors argue, the spread of resistant strains of bacteria — fueled by poor sanitation, weak health care systems with poor infection prevention and control, and bad governance — is what’s made antimicrobial resistance a global health crisis…” (Dall, 9/5).