Use antibiotics wisely

9:52am Wednesday 19th November 2008

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Health experts are encouraging doctors, nurses and the public to use antibiotics responsibly to ensure that they continue to work effectively in the future.

Yesterday was the first European Antibiotic Awareness Day and health experts are warning people that antibiotics can be used inappropriately, for the wrong reasons or taken incorrectly.

Dr Joe Kearney, Regional Director for the Health Protection Agency in the East of England said: “Antibiotic resistance is one of the world’s most challenging health problems.

“Unless we use antibiotics sensibly now, we are at risk of widespread antibiotic resistance and this could mean that we see a return to the days when antibiotics were not available.

“If this happens, it could mean that our children and grandchildren are at risk of serious illness from previously treatable infections.

“Bacteria have the ability to develop resistance to antibiotics much faster than we have the ability to develop new ones.”

He added: “Antibiotics are not effective against viruses such as colds, ‘flu and many sore throats.

“These viral infections usually get better themselves and won’t be helped by taking antibiotics. The best way to treat cold and ‘flu symptoms is by using medicines like paracetamol, resting and drinking plenty of fluids.”

Experts in the East of England are also warning the appropriate use of antibiotics plays a crucial part in the region’s bid to significantly reduce hospitals superbugs.

Watford General is already cutting down on the number of certain antibiotics doctors prescribe because is makes patients more vulnerable to catching MRSA.

Dr Jane Halpin, from Hertfordshire PCTs, said: “We know that not using antibiotics wisely can make the fight against infections like MRSA harder.

“Health care staff in Herts have drawn up guidelines to make sure antibiotics are used only when necessary, and in the best way possible, to keep people in Hertfordshire fit and well.”