Viral Solution: Preventing STIs with Bacteria-Killing Phages
Bacteriophages, or phages, which are viruses that kill bacteria, could potentially be used to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and reduce our dependence on antibiotics. Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is considering recommending the use of the antibiotic doxycycline as a preventative measure for at-risk individuals. However, concerns about antibiotic resistance have led experts to explore the use of phages as an alternative. Phages have the advantage of being able to kill both nonresistant and resistant bacteria, and they do not put pressure on bacteria to evolve resistance. While there are technical and research hurdles to overcome, phage therapy could potentially be a safer and more effective option for preventing and treating STIs in the future.