Antibiotic Awareness

"Antibiotic resistance remains one of the biggest threats facing us today."

antibioticguardian.com

Why is the relavant

Antibiotics are the most important group of drugs in modern times. There have been no new antibiotics discovered for several decades. With more and more use, bacteria are now becoming resistant to the antibiotics we currently have, and soon they may no longer work to fight infections. Without effective antibiotics many routine treatments will become increasingly dangerous. Basic operations, chemothapy and even general infections such as chest infections or stomach bugs will become increasingly dangerous and impossible to treat.

What can we do

To slow resistance we need to cut the unnecessary use of antibiotics. Antibiotics should be used only when advised by a health professional and the full course must be completed correctly. Stopping antibiotics early and not completing the recommended course can cause any leftover bacteria to become resistant and become much harder to treat.

It is important to remember that antibiotics do not treat or prevent viruses, including the one that causes COVID19. Using antibiotics for viral infections will not make you feel any better and can make future infections much harder to treat.

How to use antibiotics safely

Only take antibiotics when prescribed for a single condition
Start taking them as soon as possible and complete the entire course. Take at regular intervals. Do not stop them early even if you feel better.
Follow guidance provided with your antibiotics such as taking before or after food, and avoid alcohol for 48 hours after completing the course.
Do not save any leftover antibiotics and return them to the pharmacy. Do not share them with other people.

Become an antibiotic guardian and raise awareness

Visit www.antibioticguardian.com to find out about more about what you can do to help keep our antibiotics working for longer and how you can play your part in raising awareness

Become an Antibiotic Guardian