Yes, pathogen variability can contribute to the development of drug resistance. When pathogens are exposed to antimicrobial agents, selective pressure can favor the survival of resistant variants. Over time, these resistant strains can become more prevalent, rendering standard treatments less effective. This is a significant concern for diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria, and HIV, where drug resistance has become a major public health challenge. Monitoring and managing pathogen variability are critical components of strategies to combat drug resistance.
