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Instructor/Advisor

Dr. R. David MacLaren

Keywords

Evolution, Antibiotics, Resistance

Abstract

The evolution of antibiotics revolutionized the management of infectious diseases, beginning with Alexander Fleming’s discovery of penicillin in 1928. Penicillin’s success inspired the development of other antibiotic classes such as tetracyclines, drastically improving treatment outcomes for bacterial infections. However, this progress soon faced major challenges as antibiotic resistance emerged. Resistance evolves through genetic mutations and horizontal gene transfer, often driven by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics in healthcare and agriculture. This has allowed bacterial strains to adapt rapidly, making infections more difficult to treat and reducing the effectiveness of many once-reliable drugs. As a result, antibiotics must continually evolve to stay ahead in the battle against resistant pathogens. Bacteria can alter drug targets, reduce cell permeability, and expel antibiotics, all of which hinder treatment success. These adaptive mechanisms raise concerns about the long-term viability of current antibiotics. At the same time, herd immunity achieved through widespread vaccination helps reduce the need for antibiotic treatment by lowering infection rates. As new diseases emerge and resistance increases, researchers are exploring novel therapies and strategies to minimize antibiotic misuse and delay resistance development. Fortunately, advancements in medical technology are improving the precision and effectiveness of antibiotic use, allowing for more targeted therapies that increase the chances of successful treatment. Despite these innovations, the role of antibiotics in modern medicine remains essential. Ongoing research and global cooperation are necessary to preserve their effectiveness and protect public health. This review examines the impact of antibiotic resistance on herd immunity and broader infectious disease control strategies.

The Evolution of Antibiotic Resistance and its Influence on Herd Immunity

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