Antimicrobial Resistance and Natural Selection:

The use of antimicrobial drugs began during the World War II era. After more than 50 years of widespread use, many antimicrobial drugs have become ineffective. Health authorities believe that antimicrobial resistance is the greatest health threat of the 21st century. What caused microbes to become resistant to previously effective drugs? Below is a list of four major reasons why this has happened. Using your knowledge of natural selection, explain how each statement contributed to drug resistance. Use the internet to do some research. 20 points.

A. Rapid mutation and reproduction rates of microbes.

B. Widespread use and misuse of antibiotics by prescribing physicians.

C. Extensive use of antibiotics in agriculture, food production and as animal food additives.

D. Patient compliance to prescribed treatment regimes (do they follow directions?).