Topic 6c- Antibiotic resistance

Question 1

Why are bacteria able to evolve quickly?

Answer 1

They reproduce rapidly and therefore random mutations occur more frequently and so too do advantageous mutations therefore

Question 2

How do resistant bacteria become more prevelant than non-resistant bacteria?

Answer 2

• The resistant bacteria have a mutation that gives them an advantageous trait that allows them to survive under conditions created by an antibiotic
• The non-resistant bacteria are destoyed leaving little competition for food
• Therfore the resistant bacteria are able to quickly multiply and spread to other people

Question 3

Why might resistant bacteria become more common?

Answer 3

Overuse and inappropriate use of atibiotics-

• doctors prescribing antibiotics for non-serious conditions
• doctors prescribing antibiotics for infections caused by viruses

Question 4

Why is it important to take all the antibiotics a doctor prescribes you (even if you feel better)?

Answer 4

Stopping taking antibiotics that are prescribed can result in more antibiotic-resistant bacteria emerging. Taking the full course makes sure that all the bacteria are destroyed meaning that there are none left that can form into resistant strains.

Question 5

How can the use of antibiotics in farming risk humans?

Answer 5

Use of antibiotics on lots of animals increases the risk of resistant-bacteria froming and then spreading to humans e.g. through meat consumption