Antibiotic Awareness Month

World Antibiotic Awareness Week will occur from 18 – 24 November 2019. It aims to draw attention to the effective use of antibiotics in preventing and containing antimicrobial resistance. Antibiotic resistance is happening now – it is a worldwide problem that affects human and animal health.

Antibiotic resistance happens when bacteria stops an antibiotic from working effectively – meaning some infections may be impossible to treat.

Few new antibiotics are being developed to help solve this problem.

What is antibiotic resistance?

Antibiotic resistance is bacteria stopping an antibiotic from working effectively. Antibiotics have the capacity to treat infections and the use of antibiotics can also contribute to the problem of antibiotic resistance.

What can be done now about antibiotic resistance?

We must ensure that antibiotics are only taken when they are absolutely needed and for the shortest period of time possible. It is important to take antibiotics as prescribed by doctors and not to pressure doctors for antibiotics if they feel they won’t help your situation. Saving antibiotic prescriptions for later or taking someone else’s can mean you aren’t getting the right antibiotic at the right dose for your needs.

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