Antibiotics first appeared on the scene in the 1940s. Doctors had at their fingertips the means to eliminate diseases that had previously killed whole populations. Everyone jubilantly predicted the end to plague and pestilence.

  Unfortunately, over time, some of the miracle drugs have lost their power. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has stated that inappropriate use of antibiotics has fostered super strains of bacteria that antibiotics can no longer quell.
How Do Bacteria Become Resistant?

  Bacteria become resistant to antibiotics in three ways:*

• Random mutation. Occasionally, a bacterium is naturally resistant. 
• Inheritance. Resistant bacteria multiply, passing resistance on to their offspring.
• Sharing between bugs. Bacteria share genetic codes by transferring rings of DNA plasmids among themselves. Previously nonresistant bacteria incorporate the code from other bacteria to become resistant themselves.

  In part, the inappropriate use of antibiotics has hastened the generation of resistant bacteria.  The Mayo Clinic reports that a recent survey indicates more than half of patients who take antibiotics stop taking them when they begin to feel better. By doing so, they wipe out only the most vulnerable bacteria; the stronger ones thrive.

  Overuse of antibiotics by farmers and veterinarians to prevent illness in cattle has also helped to create superbugs stronger than the 100-plus antibiotics currently available.

  Until new antibiotics are developed, the Mayo Clinic makes the following recommendations so you can help stop perpetuating resistant bacteria.

• Don't demand antibiotics. Antibiotics are not appropriate for all conditions. In addition, many conditions may easily and quickly run their course without taking antibiotics. So, don't demand antibiotics from your doctor for colds, flu or respiratory infections.
• Make sure it's strep. Your doctor should test for strep bacteria before prescribing antibiotics for sore throat.
• Follow the directions. If you must take antibiotics, follow the directions and finish them for the full prescribed treatment, even if you feel better. Never take anyone else's leftover antibiotics. 
• Don't take antibiotics to prevent illness. You may increase your risk for developing resistant bacteria.
• Wash your hands. Frequent hand washing and keeping children's toys clean may help keep you healthy. But, avoid using antibacterial soaps and cleansers, which can help create resistant bacteria. 
• Exercise and eat right. Doing so bolsters your immune system, so you can fight off infections.

  Even when new antibiotics are created, using them only when necessary will be vital to preventing stronger and more resistant bacteria.