Numerous different antimicrobials have been employed to treat M catarrhalis infection (see below).

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Now, some companies are selling alcohol-free sanitizers with antimicrobials they say give long-lasting protection without drying hands.

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The nonalcohol antimicrobials which are in a chemical family called quaternary ammonium compounds, or "quats" do kill germs, scientists say.

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And, while antimicrobials are high on the list of potential applications for these polymers, there are other healthcare applications as well.

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Diagnostic agents, vaccines, antimicrobials, even designer psychoactive drugs all appeared on the menu.

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For the nonalcohol antimicrobials, "we need studies to look at clinical outcomes, " such as reduced transmission of infection in health-care settings, she adds.

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The NIAID has a considerable research program dedicated to fighting antibiotic resistant bacteria and the agency awards grants to deserving companies that focus on the identification of new antimicrobials to fight threatening superbugs.

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Based on a thorough review of the available scientific information, FDA has created a strategy for the judicious use of medically important antimicrobials in food-producing animals that states their use should be limited to situations where the drugs are necessary for ensuring animal health, and done so under veterinary guidance.

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