The rise and rise of resistance
It is only 50 years since antibiotics were hailed as miracle drugs against potentially fatal bacterial infections. However, a new breed of 'superbugs' resistant to many antibiotics is on the rise. The rise has been aided by our inability to internationally regulate antibiotic use in animal husbandry and human medicine. Of particular concern are antibiotics used for 'growth promotion' in the intensive production of cattle, poultry and pigs.