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Published online 11 July 2006 | Nature | doi:10.1038/news060710-6
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Bulky biofilms found in kids' ears
Drug-resistant bugs argue against use of antibiotics.
Bacteria clumped into tough biofilms are behind the widespread and persistent ear infections that vex kids, researchers have confirmed, supporting the idea that deploying antibiotics against these conditions is futile.
The middle-ear inflammation called otitis media is the most common reason for children's doctor visits and antibiotic prescriptions in the United States alone.
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