First Documented: 1911

Illness Caused: Pneumonia, Meningitis, Urinary Tract Infection

Antibiotic Resistance: High

Virulence: Worrying

Acinetobacter baumannii have become resistant to many antibiotics and like other bacteria are currently being countered most effectively through thorough hygiene in healthcare situations. The bacteria can survive in harsh conditions for long periods of time so are often difficult to deal with in weaker patients, and coupled with increasing resistance presents a tough challenge when encountered by doctors. Sometimes called Iraqibacter, Acinetobacter baumannii became very prevalent during the Iraq war amongst injured soldiers who passed through several different medical facilities.