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‘Public health Crisis’: 700 Percent Increase in Children With Antibiotic-Resistant Infections, Study Finds

  • March 30, 2017

In just eight years, infections resistant to multiple antibiotics in children under age 18 have risen by 700 percent, studyfinds.org is reporting. Like an old refrain, overuse and misuse of antibiotics are being cited as causes for this horrific problem.

Antimicrobial resistance refers to microorganisms — bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites — that, after exposure to antimicrobial drugs (such as antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, antimalarials and anthelmintics), evolve and become impervious to them, and the threat of this resistance is increasing around the globe.

Part of the problem is that industrial farming operations insist on using antibiotics for prophylactic purposes, as well as to encourage faster and bigger growth of their animals. While some producers, like Perdue Farms poultry, are taking steps to eliminate antibiotic use for these purposes, others, like Sanderson Farms, are refusing to cooperate.

In light of the growing problem of antibiotic-resistant disease, it would be wise to employ techniques and strategies that will not only reduce your own risk of falling victim, but also help curtail the spread of antibiotic resistance in general. Speak with your pocketbook: Refuse to buy anything but organically-raised, free-range, antibiotic-free meats and dairy products.

Take antibiotics yourself only when necessary. Wash your hands with simple soap and water rather than antibiotic soaps. And, as an all-around preventive measure, make sure your vitamin D level is optimized year-round, especially during pregnancy, along with vitamin K2.

A number of other natural compounds can also help boost your immune system function to help rid you of an infection, including vitamin C, oil of oregano, garlic, Manuka honey, Echinacea and tea tree oil.