Antimicrobial Stewardship

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) happens when the organisms that cause diseases change over time so that the medicines used to fight them no longer work.

Since the 1980s, there have been no new antimicrobial medicines developed, and many of our existing medicines no longer work because they have been used too much.

AMR is now one of the leading global public health and development threats, directly responsible for an estimated 1.27 million deaths and contributing to 4.95 million deaths in 2019.

 

You can find out more about Antimicrobial Resistance and what is being done about it at the links below — 

 

Tackling antimicrobial resistance 2019 to 2024

Antimicrobial resistance

1.      Most coughs, colds, and throat infections are caused by viruses, and antibiotics do not work on viruses.

2.      It’s really important that you tell the ambulance crew if you’ve had an allergic reaction to any medicines in the past, particularly antibiotics

3.      If you are given antibiotics, it is really important that you complete the entire course, even if you feel better before you’ve finished it. This is because you might feel better even though there are still some of the infectious bacteria in your body. These bacteria can then build up a defence to the antibiotic so that it does not work the next time you take the same medication. Remember that there have not been any new antibiotics developed since the 1980s, so there will not be many alternative options

4.      Do not share antibiotics with anyone else. Just because you have a similar illness, does not mean that you have the same infection, and the antibiotic may  not work, or could even make you sicker.

5.      Make sure you follow all of the advice that you are given, such as taking them on an empty or full stomach, or avoiding alcohol as this can affect how the antibiotic works. You may also be advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery if the medication causes drowsiness.