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<< Previous   of   Next >>   ADVERTISEMENT   CONTACT THE HERALD Melanie Munk, Features Editor munk@heraldnet.com   Published: Tuesday, December 18, 2007 Using meds right can help you avoid superbugs By Dr. Elizabeth Smoots Herald Columnist Recent news has highlighted a superbug called methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus. The dangerous germ has gained entrance into hospitals around the nation, affects even healthy children and adults in the community, and causes 94,000 infections and 19,000 deaths annually. But that's not all. Numerous other bacterial strains, including a common one called streptococcus pneumoniae, also show signs of growing resistance to antibiotics. Resistant bacteria are difficult to treat because the strains are not vulnerable to many types of antibiotics. Clearly, closer tracking of these infections could provide useful information. For instance, voluntary reporting during the past five years has shown that resistant staph infections have risen almost 500 percent in Pierce Country. But besides getting better tabs on the extent of the problem, I think we need to focus more of our attention on prevention. Bacteria resist antibiotics Antibiotic resistance has become a major worldwide public health concern. Since antibiotics were discovered in the early 1940s, bacteria have become increasingly resistant to the bacteria-fighting drugs. At the heart of the problem lies the widespread and unnecessary use of antibiotics in livestock and people. The problem occurs like this: When we use an antibiotic repeatedly, some of the bacteria that are exposed to that antibiotic but aren't killed become stronger and more able to fight back against the drug. Over time, an antibiotic that was once effective no longer works as well against that particular type of bacterial infection. Repeated and improper use of antibiotics eventually creates strains of bacteria that are resistant to multiple drugs. These resistant bacteria can cause serious infections that are very difficult to treat. The results are longer-lasting illnesses, more frequent visits to the doctor, extended hospital stays, the need for more expensive or toxic medications and, in the worst situations, even death. Preventing resistance In response to the growing resistance problem, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has launched programs to promote awareness about the wise use of antibiotics. Here are tips from the CDC: Take an antibiotic only when your provider determines it's truly necessary. Taking the drugs needlessly can worsen antibiotic resistance, waste money and expose your body to unwanted side effects. Don't take antibiotics for viral infections such as colds or influenza. Antibiotics are designed to work only against bacterial infections. They don't work at all in eliminating viruses. Ask your doctor about other options for treating viral illness. Soothing teas, gargles, lozenges, syrups and sprays, along with rest and fluid consumption, help relieve uncomfortable symptoms. Take an antibiotic exactly as your provider tells you. Don't skip doses. Complete the prescribed course of treatment, even if you're feeling better. Don't save any antibiotics for the next time you get sick. Discard any leftover medication once you've completed your prescribed treatment. Don't take antibiotics prescribed for someone else. The antibiotic may not be appropriate for your illness. Taking the wrong medicine may also delay correct treatment and allow the bacteria to multiply. Reduce the need for antibiotics by preventing infection. Keep your vaccines current. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand cleaner, and avoid close contact with others when you or they are sick. For more information: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov. Contact Dr. Elizabeth Smoots, a board-certified family physician and fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians, at doctor@practicalprevention.com. Her columns are not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Before adhering to any recommendations in this column consult your health care provider. © 2007 Elizabeth S. Smoots

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