When antibiotics fail, infections last longer and grow more severe. Patients may need stronger drugs, longer hospital stays, or ICU care. In some cases, treatment options run out completely. This raises the risk of complications and death, especially for newborns, older adults, and critically ill patients.
Resistance also affects routine care. Surgeries, cancer treatment, dialysis, and organ transplants all rely on effective antibiotics to prevent infections. When these drugs fail, even planned medical procedures become risky.
