A large ICMR study involving around 1.6 lakh patients has highlighted a growing public-health concern: antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
When bacteria become resistant to commonly used antibiotics, medicines that once worked effectively may no longer be able to control the infection. This can make even routine infections harder to treat and, in severe cases, increase the risk of complications.
What is antimicrobial resistance?
AMR develops when microorganisms—especially bacteria—adapt and stop responding to medicines designed to kill or control them. Antibiotic resistance is the most common form.
Why is it becoming dangerous?
- Common antibiotics may stop working against certain bacteria.
- Doctors may need to use stronger or more specialised medicines.
- Treatment can become longer and more expensive.
- Resistant infections can lead to serious complications.
- Unnecessary or incorrect antibiotic use can accelerate resistance.
How can you help prevent it?
Never take antibiotics without medical advice. Don’t use leftover antibiotics, don’t share them with others, and don’t stop a prescribed course on your own unless your doctor tells you to.
Important: Antibiotics treat bacterial infections, not viral illnesses such as most common colds and flu.
