| Overuse of Antibiotics Did you know that antibiotics can't treat colds, the flu and most sore throats? The overuse and misuse of antibiotics has contributed to antibiotic resistance (when an antibiotic no longer has an effect on a certain strain of bacteria). Antibiotics are important medications. It would be difficult to overstate the benefits of penicillin and other antibiotics in treating bacterial infections, preventing the spread of disease and reducing serious complications of disease. But some medications that used to be standard treatments for bacterial infections are now less effective or don't work at all. When an antibiotic no longer has an effect on a certain strain of bacteria, those bacteria are said to be antibiotic-resistant. Antibiotic resistance is one of the world's most pressing health problems. The general public, doctors and hospitals all play a role in ensuring proper use of the medications and minimizing the development of antibiotic resistance. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), up to one-third to one-half of antibiotic use in humans is unnecessary or inappropriate. Approximately two million infections from antibiotic-resistant bacteria occur in the United States each year, resulting in 23,000 deaths. If you take an antibiotic when you actually have a viral infection, the antibiotic attacks bacteria in your body — bacteria that are either helpful or at least not causing disease. This misdirected treatment can then promote antibiotic-resistant properties in harmless bacteria that can be shared with other bacteria, or create an opportunity for potentially harmful bacteria to replace the harmless ones. If you do need to take an antibiotic, you need to take it as directed until the pills are gone, even if you feel better. You can help reduce the development of antibiotic resistance by: · Not pressuring your doctor to give you a prescription when they are not recommending it · Washing your hands · Making sure you and your children receive recommended vaccinations |