What is antimicrobial resistance?
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) happens when bacteria evolve to survive the medicines designed to kill them. This means antibiotics stop working when we need them most.
The more we use antibiotics incorrectly or unnecessarily, the faster bacteria become resistant to them. This growing crisis affects all of us, with an estimated 7,600 deaths directly from antibiotic-resistant infections in 2019, and costs the NHS £95 million each year.
How can you help keep antibiotics working?
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has launched a new campaign with a friendly mascot called Andi Biotic who reminds us of three simple but vital actions:
- Don’t take antibiotics for colds and flu. They simply don’t work against viruses. Your body can usually fight these infections on its own.
- Don’t save antibiotics for later. Leftover antibiotics won’t work properly and may contribute to resistance.
- Take antibiotics exactly as directed by your GP, nurse or pharmacist. Complete the full course, even if you start feeling better.
Did you know?
- People who get a bacterial infection that’s resistant to antibiotics are more likely to die within 30 days compared to those with infections that respond to treatment.
- AMR is becoming a health inequality issue – those living in more deprived communities are 42.6% more likely to have an antibiotic-resistant infection compared to those in the least deprived areas.
- Antibiotic resistant bacteria can spread to your family, friends and community, creating a wider health problem.
What can you do if you have a cold or cough?
Most common winter illnesses like colds, sore throats and coughs are caused by viruses, not bacteria. This means antibiotics won’t help. Instead:
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids
- Speak to your pharmacist about over-the-counter remedies
- Use tissues when you cough or sneeze and bin them immediately
- Wash your hands regularly to avoid spreading germs
When should you seek help?
Contact your GP if:
- Your symptoms are severe or getting worse
- You have a long-term health condition
- You have a weakened immune system
- You’re concerned about a child under 5
For urgent advice, contact NHS 111 online or by phone.
Be an Antibiotic Guardian
Take the pledge to use antibiotics responsibly at antibioticguardian.com and help protect these vital medicines for future generations.
Together, we can keep antibiotics working for when we really need them.