(NC) As humans, we tend to be aware of threats in our environment and pay attention to dangerous things, or at least the ones we can see. But what about the things you encounter every day that you can’t see that are just as dangerous? Bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites can develop a resistance to the drugs we use to treat them. The risk of this antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is that infections that were once easily treatable with antimicrobials, such as antibiotics (e.g., pneumonia, strep throat or infections associated with minor injuries like scrapes and cuts) become harder to treat and may in some cases be untreatable in humans and animals.

What can you do? Slowing the development of AMR comes down to everyone doing their part by seeking medical attention when ill and using antibiotics and other antimicrobials as prescribed. Microbes (like bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi) can be transmitted a variety of ways. Take a second look at more ways to prevent transmission in animals too:

• Vaccines: Vaccines help provide immunity against a disease and reduce the chance that you or an animal will become sick. So, ensure your pets or livestock are vaccinated, and be sure to ask your vet about updating your farm’s disease management protocols.
• Wild animals: Ensure there is no contact between your animals and wild animals.