Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy

Infectious Diseases and Antimicrobial Resistance

Infectious Diseases:

Infectious diseases are caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. They range from acute illnesses (e.g., influenza, COVID-19) to chronic infections (e.g., tuberculosis, HIV).

Key Challenges in Infectious Diseases:

1. Emerging and Re-Emerging Pathogens:
   • New infectious agents, such as SARS-CoV-2, or re-emerging diseases like measles due to vaccine hesitancy.
2. Globalization and Travel:
   • Accelerates the spread of infectious diseases across regions.
3. Zoonotic Diseases:
   • Increasing prevalence due to interactions between humans and animals (e.g., Ebola, avian influenza).

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR):

AMR occurs when microorganisms evolve to resist the effects of antimicrobial drugs, rendering treatments less effective or ineffective. It is a significant global health threat.

Causes of AMR:

1. Overuse of Antibiotics:
   • Inappropriate prescriptions or over-the-counter sales.
2. Misuse in Agriculture:
   • Use of antibiotics in livestock and farming, promoting resistant strains.
3. Inadequate Infection Control:
   • Poor hygiene and sanitation in healthcare and community settings.