Antimicrobial Resistance occurs when microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist the effects of antimicrobial medicines such as antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals. This makes infections harder to treat, increases the risk of disease spread, and in some cases can lead to severe illness or death.
The overuse of antibiotics has made them less effective and has led to the emergence of “superbugs”. Bacteria are becoming resistant to the antibiotics we take and common antibiotics no longer work against these resistant bacteria.
Our Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Guardian/Steward is Dr Nelson.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m sick and think I need antibiotics, will the doctor prescribe them?
It can be hard to tell the difference between a bacterial and a viral infection, but most common illnesses like coughs, colds and sore throats are caused by viruses. Viral infections cannot be treated with antibiotics. It is then about managing your symptoms. You can explore the symptoms and treatments of common infections here.
This is why the doctor may not prescribe antibiotics straight away. They will advise you the best way manage your symptoms and tell you what to do if they do not go away. The doctor may also request some tests to see determine if the infection is bacterial or viral, or to see which antibiotic will be the most appropriate treat the infection- this helps you get the right treatment and reduces antimicrobial resistance.
How can I help reduce Antimicrobial Resistance?
Prevent infections by:
- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently and practice proper food safety, such as cooking meat to safe temperatures and storing leftovers promptly.
- Stay up-to-date on vaccinations: Vaccines help prevent infections in the first place, reducing the overall need for antimicrobials.
- Reduce the risk of spread: Catch coughs and sneezes, and follow general infection control measures to avoid spreading germs.
Use antimicrobials responsibly by:
- Not taking antibiotics for viruses: Antibiotics are only effective against bacteria, so they are useless against viruses that cause the common cold and flu.
- Take medication as prescribed: Always follow your doctor’s instructions exactly when taking an antibiotic. Finish the full course of medication even if you start to feel better.
- Never save antibiotics: Do not keep leftover antibiotics for later use, as they may not work properly and could lead to resistance or a worsening problem.
- Not sharing antibiotics: Never take antibiotics that were prescribed for someone else, and do not give your leftover antibiotics to others.
How can I find out more information?
You can visit: Seriously Resistant | Help Us Keep Antibiotics Working for more information.
The Patient’s Association have put together a useful leaflet about antibiotics- this is mainly for patients in hospital but it has some useful information to look at and consider.
