After the havoc of Corona, will superbugs be the next pandemic in the world?

What is a superbug

Superbugs refer to germs, which are microbial strains. Meaning new strains of bacteria, viruses and fungi. When a bacteria, pathogen or virus develops resistance against antibiotics and other antimicrobial drugs, it becomes a superbug. Medicines do not have any effect on it, so treatment becomes more difficult.

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How dangerous are superbugs?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 28 lakh people are getting infected by superbugs every year in the US alone. More than 35,000 of them die. If any of its strains spreads like an epidemic, it can cause devastation in the entire world.

According to WHO, bacterial AMR caused 1.27 million deaths worldwide in 2019. AMR makes it difficult to treat any kind of infection, making medical procedures and treatments such as surgery, caesarean section and chemotherapy risky. Many studies have expressed the fear of superbugs becoming a new pandemic in the world.

Why superbugs are on the rise

The overuse and misuse of antibiotics in humans and animals has led to the rise of superbugs. This can happen due to the use of inappropriate antibiotics in animal husbandry, self-medication and wrong prescription. Living in a very dirty environment also increases the risk of infection from such germs. If the food is not cooked or packed hygienically, bacteria can grow. If the infection is not treated on time, there is a risk of it increasing. Also, the pathogens present in the body keep increasing their numbers.

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What problems can superbugs cause?

1. There may be difficulty in treating diseases caused by infection like pneumonia, TB, UTI.

2. After surgery, antibiotics will not work in the body and the infection may increase. Due to which the condition can become serious.

3. Chemotherapy used to treat cancer affects the immune system. This can put patients at risk of infection, which can be risky and life-threatening.

4. Problems of patients with chronic diseases may also increase.

5. Treatment of diabetes, kidney disease, lung diseases can cause serious problems.

Precautions to avoid superbugs

1. Wash and clean hands thoroughly

2. Maintain cleanliness in food, avoid dirt.

3. Try to avoid sexually transmitted infections. Use condoms properly.

4. Maintain a proper distance from sick people.

5. Do not delay or be careless in getting the recommended vaccine.