COVID-19: Why biocide overuse needs to be addressed to tackle AMR

Biocides are used to destroy or control any harmful organism by chemical or biological means. The examples include disinfectants or antiseptics with common ingredients like alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, surfactants, triclosan, sodium hypochlorite, chlorhexidine and quaternary ammonium compounds.

According to the authors, excessive use of biocides can be a potential threat that could drive AMR further, since long-term exposure to sub-lethal levels of such agents — both in healthcare and non-healthcare settings — can aid the selection of resistant bacteria.