Issued by NHS Castle Point and Rochford CCG and NHS Southend CCG

18 November 2015

ANTIBIOTICS MAY NOT HELP

TAKE CARE NOT ANTIBIOTICS

Local NHS leaders are reminding us all that we should use antibiotics only when they’re needed to keep them effective during the first World Antibiotic Awareness Week (16 to 22 November 2015).

Coughs and colds are starting to circulate and many of us may be tempted to visit the GP for antibiotics, but patients are being warned that if they’re not needed they won’t be prescribed.  In fact, 44% of all people who visit the GP suffering from a cold or flu want or think they need antibiotics.

Simon Williams, Head of Medicines Management for Castle Point and Rochford CCG and Southend CCG explains:  “Antibiotics only work on bacterial infections.  Bacteria is very smart. It finds ways to become immune to the antibiotics that we take, making them less effective and in some cases stops them working.  New antibiotics aren’t being researched and developed so we have to sensibly use the ones that we have.

“Most sore throats, such as tonsillitis are viral infections.  So taking antibiotics won’t have an effect.  The best thing people can do is visit their pharmacist who can advise on over the counter remedies to ease the symptoms; take plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids.”

Bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics when they’re used often; if they’re not taken as prescribed or the course isn’t finished.

Simon added: “If people don’t finish the course because they feel better for example, then some of the bacteria can still be in the system.  It then mutates and develops a resistance to that antibiotic so that it’s not as effective next time.”

If the cold lasts more than three weeks, or you become breathless or have chest pains, see your doctor or dial NHS111.

You should never share your antibiotics with anyone else because you don’t know their medical history.

For more information about staying well this winter visit www.nhs.uk/staywell