Hitting back at superbugs

NHS Lanarkshire urged people to join the fight to protect antibiotics for future generations and stop the spread of superbugs.

It was part of the UK-wide Keep Antibiotics Working campaign which encourages people to use antibiotics more wisely as currently, 700,000 people die of antibiotic resistant infections every year globally.

It is estimated this will rise to 10 million by 2050 unless action is taken.

Steve McCormack, NHS Lanarkshire antimicrobial lead who oversees the campaign in Lanarkshire, said: “The World Health Organisation has warned of a potential post-antibiotic era in which common infections and minor injuries can kill.

“While the latest data shows Lanarkshire has continued to make progress when it comes to reducing unnecessary prescriptions for antibiotics in primary care, there is still work to be done.”

The campaign aims to encourage professionals, parents and the public to make the right choices when it comes to antibiotics, and avoid making them the first port of call when it comes to winter coughs and colds.

The campaign is linked to the Antibiotic Guardian pledge, which enables professionals and the public to reaffirm their commitment to tackling antibiotic resistance by agreeing to do one thing to use antibiotics more wisely and safeguard them for future generations.

Sign the Antibiotic Guardian pledge at www.antibioticguardian.com.

 

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