How everyday choices and quick fixes quietly accelerate antimicrobial resistance threat

When antibiotics are used without knowing the cause, they may do nothing at all or make resistance worse. [Courtesy]

The path to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) often begins at home, quietly and without intention. A headache, fever, stomach pain or sore throat feels familiar.

The symptoms resemble something experienced before. Instead of going to a health facility for tests, many people reach for what once worked. A leftover pill, a familiar antibiotic from a nearby chemist or advice from a friend feels quicker, cheaper and easier.