Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria

For this Discussion you will perform some research using high-quality literature. The development of antibiotic-resistance among bacteria is a major issue in healthcare, but is widely misunderstood by the general public. The World Health Organization recently released a report on the extent of antibiotic resistance world-wide. A summary of the report can be found under the title, ” WHO’s First Global Report on Antibiotic Resistance Reveals Serious, Worldwide Threat to Public Health.” You may want to find this summary before beginning this week’s Discussion. Use the information from your research to answer the following questions:

What are antibiotics?
What mechanisms do bacteria use to resist the effects of antibiotics?
What genetic changes underlie these mechanisms?
What can we (humans) do to limit the spread of antibiotic-resistance among bacteria?
Farmers can buy antibiotics for their livestock over the counter at farm supply stores. Do you think farmers should be able to buy antibiotics without a prescription from a vet? Why or why not?
The World Health Organization has determined that antibiotic resistance is a serious, worldwide threat to public health. In your opinion, what are the global implications of antibiotic resistance?
Address all Discussion topics. Your initial post should be at least 200 words and contain references. In addition, respond to at least two of your colleagues’ posts with meaningful comments in accordance with the Syllabus. Each post should be at least 50 words. Please be sure to cite all of your sources.