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Antibiotics are drugs widely used in most industrialised societies - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 25 - 2001 - Paper 1
Question 25
Antibiotics are drugs widely used in most industrialised societies. They are used to treat bacterial infections, are added to animal feed, and have been included in ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Antibiotics are drugs widely used in most industrialised societies - HSC - SSCE Biology - Question 25 - 2001 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain the possibility of controlling the spread of disease
Answer
The widespread use of antibiotics can initially help control the spread of bacterial diseases by effectively treating infections in humans and animals. This treatment can reduce the number of bacteria present in populations, thereby lowering the transmission rates of infectious diseases. As antibiotics kill sensitive bacteria, the overall incidence of disease may decrease, leading to improved public health outcomes.
Step 2
Explain the possibility of multi-resistant bacteria being developed
Answer
However, the extensive use of antibiotics also raises the concerning possibility of multi-resistant bacteria developing. When antibiotics are used frequently, bacteria can mutate and adapt, leading to strains that are resistant to existing treatments. These resistant strains can spread more easily and cause untreatable infections, potentially leading to outbreaks that are difficult to control. This scenario poses a significant threat to public health, as routine infections could become fatal due to the lack of effective treatments.