Tackling antibiotic resistance
Antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest threats facing us today.
Without effective antibiotics many routine treatments will become increasingly dangerous. Setting broken bones, basic operations, even chemotherapy all rely on access to antibiotics that work.
To slow resistance we need to cut the use of unnecessary antibiotics.
Do not expect your doctor to prescribe antibiotics for colds or for most coughs and sore throats. Antibiotics are only effective against bacteria, but colds and most coughs and sore throats are caused by viruses, so an antibiotic won’t help. There are usually remedies you can take to help relieve the symptoms – ask your pharmacist for advice.
Here are some things you can do to make you feel better:
- Rest if you have a temperature (feel feverish).
- Drink plenty of water or soft drinks.
- Take paracetamol, according to the instructions on the packet, to bring your temperature down or if you are in any discomfort.
- Speak to your local pharmacist about other remedies you can safely take for your symptoms.
- Phone or visit the surgery for further advice if you are not getting better within a few days, or at any time if you are concerned about your symptoms.
Watch this video to learn more about antibiotic resistance, and why it matters.