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Antimicrobial resistance remains a pressing public health concern and a leading cause of death around the world. Treating infections with antibiotics is a decision made by the healthcare provider after carefully considering the benefits and risks of treatment.

However, healthcare providers may not think as carefully about the benefit-risk trade-offs when using antimicrobial products liberally to disinfect high traffic surfaces such as door handles and exam tables. Like their pharmaceutical counterparts, antimicrobial disinfectants can also come with "side effects" and may be contributing to the rise of superbugs.

The COVID-19 pandemic magnified the use of disinfectants and alcohol-based sanitizers in healthcare and non-healthcare settings. On top of overzealous use of wipes, sprays, and cleaning solutions, the pandemic has also boosted the relatively new trend of putting antimicrobials on nonporous items and in durable goods (pillows, socks, furniture, airplane brochures). Head over to MedPage Today to read more about it.