6.6 Use of Antibiotics

1. Antiobiotic Resistance 101: how antibiotic misuse on factory farms can make you sick

A couple of weeks ago, I actually read this article that was posted on Environmental Health News, Crucial antibiotics still used on US farms despite public health fears, and it clearly emphasizes this current article Antibiotic Resistance 101. The article posted by EHN is a newer article that states the FDA has set regulations banning the use of antibiotics on livestock without a prescription from a vet. Sadly, big companies’ product's; like Tyson, Cargill, and JBS; are still testing positive for antibiotics, in fact there was no reduction in the number of antibiotics. This is really scary to think about, especially for vulnerable populations. I hope the FDA and other governmental agencies can get on top of this before it becomes an even bigger issue.  

2. Nearby livestock may raise “superbug” risk

After reading the article Antibiotic Resistance 101 and then reading this article, it really goes to show how important it is for the government to take control of the amount of antibiotic use in livestock. The fact that MRSA has now become resistant to the antibiotics is scary to think about and proves that something needs to be done, now. 

3. Scientists discover that antimicrobial wipes and soaps may be making you (and society) sick

This article reminds me of a guy who comes to my gym and CONSTANTLY is wiping anything he uses with the antibacterial wipes. Yes, I understand that he is being cautious, and he is “protecting” himself from other people gross germs but whenever I see him doing this I can’t help to think what he is doing is not really helping. I actually have been an old-school soap and water kind of hand-washer since I was little, and I am happy this article proves that is has the same results of using antibiotic soaps. I do also always carry hand-sanitizer with me, but usually that is a last resort kind of option.  

4. A report about the new practice of incorporating antimicrobials into the manufacture of hospital furnishings

Hospitals are supposed to be one of the healthiest places to go. After reading how there is little evidence on the safety and efficacy of incorporating antimicrobials into the furnishings of hospitals, it is shocking. These are supposed to “reduce the spread of viruses and infections” and they could be but without the hard evidence, we will never know. Active research should be put into testing the safety and efficacy of these and a set of guidelines surrounding the type of furnishings are allowed into a hospital.