In 1928, Dr. Alexander Fleming noticed that mold produced a substance that stopped the growth of bacteria. This discovery led to the creation of penicillin, a life-changing antibiotic that helped drastically reduce the death rate from infections. Penicillin is just one of many antibiotics that are a normal part of our modern lives. These medical tools help us fight off disease and stay healthy. With these tools, our modern healthcare system has eliminated danger and death from infections that used to kill many.
But what happens when antibiotics don’t work? A process called antibiotic resistance occurs. According to the Cleveland Clinic, “Antibiotic resistance is when bacteria change to resist antibiotics used to treat them effectively. This makes certain bacterial infections difficult to treat.” Antibiotic resistance rates are rising for many reasons, including overuse and misuse of antibiotics. But a new study has found another alarming reason for antibiotic resistance — disinfection chemicals.
Biocides, common ingredients in household and commercial disinfectant solutions, are designed to kill bacteria. However, a recent study published in NatureMicrobiology found that some types of bacteria are becoming more resistant to these chemicals. The study focused on a multidrug-resistant bacteria called Acinetobacter baumannii. This bacteria causes many people to get sick yearly with blood, urine, or lung infections. These infections are treated with antibiotics, so if the bacteria become more resistant to antibiotics, it can affect the effectiveness of this treatment plan.
While the results of this study do not mean that all disinfection solutions and chemicals are increasing antibiotic resistance, they make scientists think there is a correlation. But it will take time and more significant study to know for sure. But in the meantime, what can you do to reduce your exposure to biocide chemicals? Use MicroShield 360!
Unlike traditional disinfection tools, the MicroShield 360 system is a one-time cleaning tool that provides long-term disinfection protection without harsh chemicals. This system forms an antimicrobial layer that offers lasting disinfection protection for up to one year. It’s applied without harsh chemicals, using electrostatic technology. With this system in place, you can simply clean surface dirt and debris off with water while the invisible antimicrobial layer kills germs and bacteria on the surface.
Antibiotics, like penicillin, save lives. Antibiotic resistance is a serious health concern that researchers are studying to understand. Findings like the ones in this study show that many things could increase antibiotic resistance, like biocide chemicals. So finding healthier disinfection solutions, like the MicroShield 360 system, is a great way to keep yourself and your family safe!
