In this monograph journalist Rinke van den Brink takes a closer look at the limitations and
risks of today's antibiotic use. Though all developed societies have grown accustomed to
successfully treating bacterial infections with these wonder drugs the author focuses on the
increasing number of antibiotic-resistant infections. By examining recent mass outbreaks
readers will gain a better understanding of the global impact of antimicrobial resistance - one
of the most serious public health threats today. Following this somewhat disquieting review of
the status quo interviews with a number of specialists provide an outlook on possible
solutions. In a world that is more connected than ever partnerships between different
healthcare systems are becoming all the more important. Rinke van den Brink uses the example of
a border-spanning collaboration between the Netherlands and Germany to demonstrate how
effective lines of communication can be established. The book offers a wealth of useful
background information for healthcare personnel. Not only does it share insights into the
functional microbe-antibiotic relationship it also discusses how clinics can effectively
address outbreaks helping readers to learn from past experiences and develop effective new
strategies.