Antibiotic Resistance Week

It is World Antibiotic Resistance Week.

The overuse of antibiotics in recent years means they’re becoming less effective and has led to the emergence of “superbugs”.

These are strains of bacteria that have developed resistance to many different types of antibiotics, including MRSA and C.Diff.

Both the NHS and health organisations across the world are trying to reduce the use of antibiotics, especially for health problems that are not serious.

This includes coughs, sore throats and ear infections. These type of infections are most often caused by viruses, hence antibiotics are not effective. The more antibiotics are used to treat viral conditions, the more likely they are to become ineffective for treating more serious conditions.

We can all help in the fight against antibiotic resistance by:

Preventing the spread of infections by washing your hands regularly and isolating when unwell

Not using antibiotics when they are not required, such as for viral infections

Completing the course of antibiotics when you are prescribed them