The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that antibiotic resistance poses a serious threat to global health. A new report by the UN health agency revealed that one in six infections worldwide no longer responds to the most common antibiotics.
According to WHO officials, antibiotic resistance is spreading rapidly and could make many existing treatments ineffective. The organization said the situation threatens the future of modern medicine, including surgeries, cancer therapy, and other medical procedures that rely on antibiotics to prevent infection.
The report shows that bacteria resistant to multiple drugs are becoming more common in hospitals and communities. The WHO emphasized that antibiotic misuse — such as taking unnecessary prescriptions, using incomplete doses, or overusing antibiotics in livestock — is a key driver of the problem.
“Antibiotic resistance is widespread and threatening the future of modern medicine,” a WHO official said. The agency warned that if no urgent action is taken, common infections could become untreatable, leading to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs, and increased deaths.
The data collected from 87 countries highlighted major regional differences. Low- and middle-income nations are facing the worst effects, partly due to weaker healthcare systems and limited access to newer, more effective antibiotics.
Experts urge countries to strengthen surveillance systems, promote responsible antibiotic use, and invest in research for new medicines. Public awareness campaigns are also crucial to help people understand when antibiotics are truly needed.
The WHO is calling for stronger international cooperation to combat antibiotic resistance, stressing that no country can tackle the issue alone. The agency added that without global action, even minor infections could once again become deadly.
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