What could happen if bacteria develop resistance to antibiotics?

The potential for bacteria to develop resistance to antibiotics has significant implications for public health. When bacteria acquire resistance, they can survive even when antibiotics that were once effective are administered. As a result, infections caused by these resistant bacteria can become challenging to treat, leading to prolonged illness, increased medical costs, and a higher risk of severe complications or even death.

This resistance often arises from genetic mutations or the transfer of resistance genes from one bacterium to another. Infections that were previously manageable with standard antibiotic therapy may now require more potent medications or alternative treatment strategies, which may not be as effective, more expensive, or come with greater side effects.

The other options do not accurately reflect the consequences of antibiotic resistance. For instance, bacteria that develop resistance do not become harmless; instead, they typically become more problematic. They are not eliminated by other bacteria; in fact, resistant strains can proliferate, overshadowing non-resistant strains. Furthermore, resistant bacteria continue to reproduce, which could lead to an increase in the population of hard-to-treat infections. Therefore, the correct understanding of the matter lies in recognizing the severe implications of antibiotic resistance in medical contexts.