Coursework Example: Antibiotic-resistant Strains of Bacteria

The use, overuse, and abuse of antibiotics are accredited with creating these antibiotic-resistant strains. Explain how this relates to natural selection.

The overuse or abuse of antibiotics is a contributing factor to antibiotic resistance, and it relates to natural selection because bacteria are very numerous; the random mutation of bacterial DNA produces a wide selection of genetic variations. Through mutation and selection, the bacteria develop mechanisms that protect it against antibiotics; therefore, the bacteria that is most susceptible to an antibiotic will die if exposed to that antibiotic and leave any bacteria to pass on resistant features to future generations (Bonilla & Muniz, 2009).

Describe 12 of the things that people do (you can include individuals, doctors, health care professionals, hospitals, farmers, etc.) that contribute to this problem?

Everyone plays a part in contributing to the issue of antibiotic resistance. Doctors, for instance, continuously use different antibiotics on patients, which can hinder the immune system and give way to more bacteria. Besides, failure to monitor antibiotic intake allows bacteria to adapt to the presence of low dose antibiotics; eventually, a bacteria population that is entirely resistant, regardless of dosage, is formed (Guilfoile & Alcamo, 2007). Farmers, on the other hand, continually use antibiotics to treat animals. The uncontrolled use of thee antibiotics creates a reservoir of bacteria that could become resistant. The resistant bacteria then find their way to the human body through food and water (Bonilla & Muniz, 2009).

How can you prevent or slow down the spread and further the selection of new antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria?

Preventing infections from developing reduces the continuous use of antibiotics, which in turn slows down the rate of antibiotic resistance. Various steps that can be used to counter drug-resistant infections include; proper use of antibiotics, immunization, and living hygienic lifestyle (Guilfoile & Alcamo, 2007).

Are there things that you can personally do to reduce your risk or even to reduce the spread of these dangerous microbes?

To reduce the spread of bacteria, I will ensure that I only get the recommended vaccine and I would not use antibiotics unless the doctor prescribes them. It is also important to avoid sharing leftover antibiotics and to ensure that I finish the prescribed treatment.

What is your reaction to the following sign that is commonly found in restrooms? Is it significant to the discussion of antibiotic resistance?

Such a sign makes me think that there might have been an outbreak of a particular disease and the staff was not taking necessary precautions to prevent it. However, the sign is significant to antibiotics resistance discussion since it is a way of reminding people to help in preventing future outbreaks. The sign serves both employees and customers by reminding them to sanitize their hands after using the restroom.

References

Bonilla, A. R., & Muniz, K. P. (2009). Antibiotic Resistance: Causes and Risk Factors, Mechanisms and Alternatives. Hauppauge: Nova Science Publishers.

Guilfoile, P., & Alcamo, E. (2007). Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria. New York : Infobase Publishing.