What does antibiotic resistance allow bacteria to do?

Antibiotic resistance allows bacteria to survive despite the presence of antibiotics that would normally kill them or inhibit their growth. This resistance occurs through various mechanisms, such as mutations in bacterial genes or the acquisition of resistance genes from other bacteria. As a result, when exposed to antibiotics, these resistant bacteria can continue to multiply and thrive, leading to infections that are harder to treat and control.

This ability to survive antibiotic exposure is a significant public health concern, as it can contribute to increased morbidity, prolonged hospital stays, and a greater risk of mortality. Understanding antibiotic resistance is crucial in developing strategies for treating infections and controlling the spread of resistant strains of bacteria.