Superbugs: The Present Damage and Impact on Health
Superbugs, also known as antibiotic-resistant bacteria, have already caused significant damage to public health. In 2017, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that millions of Americans were already affected by superbug infections. The statistics are alarming – around 23,000 individuals lose their lives each year due to illnesses associated with these bacteria, and this death rate remains consistent.
Understanding the Spread of Infections from Antibiotic-Resistant Bugs
Infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bugs have the ability to spread through various unexpected avenues. One common source of transmission is through the regular contact individuals have with animals, particularly farm workers who are at higher risk due to their close proximity. However, residing in a city does not necessarily guarantee safety from these infections.
Surprisingly, the consumption of animal products also poses a potential risk for contracting antibiotic-resistant infections. This is largely due to the fact that approximately three-quarters of the antibiotics used today are administered to animals. Consequently, individuals who consume animal products are exposed to these resistant bacteria.
While some might assume that adopting a vegan lifestyle is the healthiest option to avoid such infections, it is important to note that this might not be entirely accurate. Even supermarkets play a role in the spread of antibiotic-resistant bugs as they often purchase poultry that has been fed with antibiotics. As a result, bacteria from the meat counter can easily find its way onto green vegetables, further contributing to the transmission of these infections.