True or False: Only individuals with drug-resistant infections need to worry about drug-resistant diseases.

The assertion that only individuals with drug-resistant infections need to worry about drug-resistant diseases is inaccurate, making the statement false. Drug resistance is a broader public health concern that can affect anyone, not just those currently infected with drug-resistant pathogens.

Drug-resistant bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites can emerge in any individual, often due to the misuse or overuse of antibiotics and other medications. This phenomenon contributes to the growing concern that once-treatable infections may become difficult or impossible to manage for the general population, which can lead to increased morbidity and mortality rates.

Furthermore, individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions may be at greater risk, but this does not imply that healthy individuals are exempt from the risks associated with drug-resistant infections. Preventive measures, such as responsible antibiotic prescribing and adherence to vaccination guidelines, are crucial for everyone to mitigate the risks associated with drug resistance.