Drug-Resistant Infections Increasing Across North Carolina, Experts Warn
Raleigh, N.C. – A growing prevalence of antibiotic-resistant infections is being observed in North Carolina, prompting concern from infectious disease specialists who cite both overuse of antibiotics and a changing climate as contributing factors. The rise in these challenging-to-treat illnesses poses a significant threat to public health, possibly complicating common infections and increasing hospitalization rates.
The increasing resistance stems from a combination of factors, but experts emphasize that unnecessary antibiotic use – particularly for viral infections like the common cold – accelerates the evolution of resistant bacteria. “The more we use antibiotics and put selection pressure on bacteria, the more they’re going to evolve resistance,” explained Dr. david Holland, an infectious disease specialist. “If you have a common cold, it’s not bacterial and antibiotics in that situation are not going to help you and are going to contribute to driving this evolution of resistance for everybody else.” This widespread selection pressure creates a breeding ground for bacteria that can withstand traditional treatments.
Beyond antibiotic practices, warming temperatures are also expanding the range of infectious agents seen in the state. Previously uncommon fungal infections and viral illnesses typically confined to tropical regions are now appearing in North carolina. “We live in a warming habitat. Things that weren’t normally in North Carolina…are now popping up here. We’re seeing viral infections that normally would have been in the tropics, now showing up in the U.S. and North Carolina,” holland stated.
Combating this trend requires a sustained and comprehensive approach, beginning with localized monitoring of resistance patterns.Holland noted that when treating serious infections, such as urinary tract infections, clinicians may initially need to employ broader-spectrum antibiotics while awaiting culture results to ensure effective coverage.
While the situation is concerning, health officials are urging calm, emphasizing that a widespread public lockdown is not warranted. “This is not a stay-in-your-home situation,” Holland assured. He stressed the importance of a broad societal response focused on preventative measures, particularly diligent hand hygiene. “Wash your hands and just having good hand hygiene is helpful for not spreading these bugs.” A long-term, focused strategy is essential to mitigate the growing threat of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and protect public health in North Carolina.
