Bacteriophages – a unique opportunity in the fight against antibiotic resistance
The report is a response to the challenge from Norwegian prime minister Erna Solberg. Many opportunities are available. Success can be achieved with commitment and right instruments.
What are bacteriophages?
Bacteriophages have specialised over more than three billion years in infecting, killing and keeping bacteria under control. Some of these viruses kill so efficiently that they can be used purposefully instead of or in combination with antibiotics. Bacteriophages destroy bacteria without creating the same problems and side-effects as antibiotics. They could thereby become an effective, natural and environment-friendly alternative.
Antibiotic resistance threatens the environment, animals, food production and public health
The threat posed by antibiotic resistance cannot be eliminated, but steps can be taken to reduce its progress.
Public health and modern medicine
Decades of medical research and progress could be reversed by antibiotic resistance.
Environmental consequences
The ecosystem in water, soil and organisms is disrupted by the production and use of pharmaceuticals and their subsequent disposal.
Antibiotics consumption in Norway
Norway is among the countries with the lowest consumption of antibiotics for both humans and animals, and has little problem with antibiotic resistance today.