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Drug-Resistant 'Superbugs' Deemed Urgent Threat

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria, called "superbugs," infect more than 2 million people per year, the CDC estimates.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has deemed several antibiotic-resistant bacteria as urgent threats.

Antibiotics that are overprescribed have contributed to the creation of mutated, harder to kill bacteria. (CNN)
Antibiotics that are overprescribed have contributed to the creation of mutated, harder to kill bacteria. (CNN)

Improper use and overuse of antibiotics to treat infections has led bacteria to mutate, making it harder to kill with drugs.

"When someone has a cough or a cold they feel like they need to get an antibiotic to get better," Dr. Armand Dorian said. "We know that viruses are not treated by antibiotics."

According to the CDC, more than 2 million people are infected by antibiotic-resistant infections every year. At least 23,000 people die of these infections.

Dr. Dorian recommends college students maintain good hygeine and get enough sleep to avoid getting sick. If students do become infected, Dorian says to follow the instructions of doctors and pharmacists carefully. Patients must take the full course of any prescribed antibiotics, even if symptoms go away.

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