How COVID-19 is accelerating the threat of antimicrobial resistance

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How COVID-19 is accelerating the threat of antimicrobial resistance

The global emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the use of antibiotics in the health care setup to minimize the secondary bacterial infections by which the threat of antimicrobial resistant bacteria and other superbugs is worsening. A study on covid-19 cases revels that frequent use of broad spectrum antibiotics can spur antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through over use, which could enhance long term threat of AMR. The World Health Organization discourages antibiotics use for mild cases of COVID-19 and recommended use of antibiotic for severe COVID-19 cases at increased risk of secondary bacterial infections and death. The clinical uncertainty regarding COVID-19 infections is likely encouraging increased antibiotic use. It is also a matter of concern that this pandemic situation may disrupt the antibiotic stewardship program in healthcare systems intended to assist hospitals reduce the risk of AMR.

To read the entire article, please visit the website of the British Medical Journal [Link]