The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has issued a stark warning about the rising threat of antibiotic resistance in Europe. Despite ongoing efforts to curb antibiotic use, the misuse and overuse of these vital drugs remain widespread. Between 2019 and 2023, no EU country demonstrated a significant reduction in antibiotic consumption. This persistent issue is contributing to an alarming rise in antimicrobial resistance, which makes infections harder to treat. The ECDC predicts that, by 2050, antibiotic-resistant infections could lead to over 39 million deaths worldwide. Bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites are evolving to resist antibiotics, largely due to their excessive use in both healthcare and agriculture. The need for stricter regulations and more effective strategies to reduce antibiotic consumption is urgent, as failure to address the issue could lead to catastrophic health consequences. The ECDC urges European nations to act swiftly to prevent a future health crisis.
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