Local people are being encouraged by NHS organisations in Kirklees to tackle antibiotic resistance by adhering to the advice of their doctor, nurse or pharmacist.
NHS Kirklees CCG is supporting World Antimicrobial Awareness Week by warning of the dangers of taking antibiotics when you don’t need them.
Dr Khalid Naeem, GP and Clinical Chair of Kirklees CCG said: “The more antibiotics you take, the more the harmful bacteria that live inside you become resistant. This means antibiotics may not be as effective when you really need them. The use of antibiotics is essential for treating acute bacterial infections, like sepsis, meningitis, and pneumonia; however, for everyday viral infections like flu or colds, antibiotics are not effective.”
As bacteria become resistant to antibiotics, common medical procedures, such as hip replacements and caesarean sections become more dangerous, as antibiotics can no longer be used to fight off infections. Cancer patients are also put at greater risk if antibiotics don’t work due their reduced capacity to fight off infections as a result of their weakened immune system. Antibiotics are critical for both preventing and treating infections in these patients.
“By taking antibiotics only when prescribed and never using them later or sharing them with others, you can help to prevent antibiotic resistance. When it comes to the use of antibiotics, always follows the advice of your doctor, nurse or pharmacist” added Dr Naeem.
For more minor health conditions, such as coughs, colds and aches and pains, you can visit a community pharmacy for help. This is a good place to start for advice and treatment, and you don’t need an appointment to speak to the pharmacist.
For more information on antibiotic resistance visit the NHS website.