The "Super Germs" Are Here

Doctors and researchers are very alarmed that "super germs" that are resistant to all known antibiotics are multiplying because of our over-dependence on antibiotics.

If the same antibiotic is prescribed again to the same person, resistant bacteria gradually predominate, making the antibiotic less and less effective. So, the more you or your child takes an antibiotic, the quicker it becomes useless. Family members, co-workers, or schoolmates can catch these resistant bugs, spread through nasal fluid, food, and saliva.

One of the most commonly prescribed drugs, antibiotics kill or interfere with the growth of micro-organisms, especially bacteria, but have no effect on viruses. Yet, many people believe that antibiotics effectively treat viruses, according to Robert S. Fawcett, MD, MS, assistant director of the York Health System Family Practice Residency Program.

A study by the University of South Carolina found that 43 percent of patients with upper respiratory infections, influenza, or acute bronchitis—all caused by viruses—got antibiotics at their first visit.

Prescriptions for antibiotics are most commonly written for ear infections, sinusitis, bronchitis, sore throats, colds, and ear infections.

However, acute ear infections only need to be treated with antibiotics when the infection is accompanied by symptoms like pus, bulging or inflamed tympanic membrane, a painful ear, and fever. Antibiotics should be considered for sinusitis only if symptoms are present for 10 to 14 days without improvement.

With a sore throat, antibiotics should only be given after test results have confirmed Group A Streptococcal or other bacterial infection.

"Prescribing antibiotics without a positive diagnosis of bacterial infection is felt to be considerable antibiotic overtreatment," Dr. Fawcett says. "Patients should not demand antibiotics and physicians should prescribe antibiotics only when they are sure an infection is bacterial."

The CDC urges people, especially those older than 65 and those with chronic diseases, to be vaccinated against pneumococcal infection, the most common bacterial cause of meningitis, ear infections, and pneumonia.

What can you do?

You can help halt the evolution of super germs and antibiotic resistance by following these rules:

1. Finish that bottle of antibiotics. Don't stop because you or your child feels better.
2. Don't be tempted by leftovers from a previous prescription—even if your child gets frequent ear infections. This helps bacteria become resistant. If you follow the first rule, the second will take care of itself.
3. Work with your doctor. Don't insist on an antibiotic if your doctor doesn't think it's necessary. When a doctor does prescribe one, ask what you're getting and why.
4. Don't skip doses. This causes the level of antibiotic in the bloodstream to drop, providing bacteria with a breather. Some bacteria may survive.