EXTINCTION + RESISTANT BACTERIA

What is extinction

No individuals of a species are alive

What factors may lead to extinction

* New disease
* Predation
* Competition
* Changes to environment
* Catastrophic events

What enables bacteria to evolve quickly

The fast rate of their reproduction

What is the process of antibiotic resistance bacteria evolving

Mutations occur in bacteria: producing genetic variation

Certain strains are resistant to antibiotics and are not killed when the antibiotic is applied

Resistant strains survive and reproduce

Over time population of strain increases

Why are resistant strains of bacteria dangerous

People have no immunity to them and there is no effective treatment

What is an example of a resistant strain of bacteria

MRSA

What can be done to reduce the rate of development of antibiotic resistant bacteria

Refrain from inappropriately prescribing antibiotics

Complete entire prescribed course

Restrict agricultural uses of antibiotics

Why is it difficult to keep up with emerging resistance strains

Developing antibiotics have a high cost and take a long time to develop