This week marks Antibiotic Resistance Awareness Week, an important moment to reflect on how we can all help protect our health and the health of our communities.
Antibiotic resistance – also known as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) – happens when bacteria evolve so that antibiotics no longer work as effectively. This makes common infections harder to treat and increases the risk of serious illness. AMR is already affecting people across the UK, and without action it will continue to grow.
There are some simple steps we can all take to help slow this trend and keep antibiotics working:
- Use antibiotics only when they are prescribed for you by a qualified health professional.
- Never save antibiotics for later or share them with others.
- Always take antibiotics exactly as advised.
- Keep your vaccinations up to date – vaccines reduce infections and help limit the need for antibiotics.
- Practise good hygiene, such as regular hand washing, to reduce the spread of germs.
To support this awareness week, we have published two blogs offering practical insight from our clinical leaders:
John Swanson, Clinical Nurse Specialist for Infection Control, discusses careful antibiotic prescribing in children and how families can be supported to use medicines safely and appropriately.
Dr Matthew Sweeting, Executive Medical Director, explores the connection between antimicrobial resistance and vaccination. He highlights how preventing avoidable infections through vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to reduce antibiotic use and protect vulnerable groups.
Antibiotics are a precious resource. By working together and using them responsibly, we can help ensure they remain effective for future generations.
SWF Health & Social Care Group 