Antibiotics and resistance: Information for the general public

-Automatic translation

You must follow your doctor's instructions when prescribed antibiotics to reduce the risk of bacteria developing resistance.

• Antibiotics do not work for colds

• Take antibiotics responsibly and only when prescribed by a doctor

• It is everyone's responsibility to maintain the effectiveness of antibiotics

If you do not follow the instructions, for example, if you take a lower dose or do not take the antibiotic full time or at the time of day advised by the doctor, bacteria can develop antibiotic resistance.

• You can carry these resistant bacteria and spread them to others. There is, therefore, an increased risk that the antibiotics will not work the next time you need them.

• Follow your doctor's advice on when, how, and for how long to take antibiotics.

• Do not use leftover antibiotics.

• Return leftover medication to the pharmacy.

-Automatic translation

For decades, antibiotics have been helpful in the treatment of life-threatening infections. In previous years, however, the incorrect and irresponsible use of antibiotics has led to the development and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

When a person gets an infection caused by resistant bacteria, the antibiotics no longer work to treat the infection; it may take longer to get rid of or even become more severe.

Allowing antibiotic resistance to develop can seriously threaten public health, as resistant bacteria can spread within the community.

• It is everyone's responsibility to maintain the effectiveness of antibiotics.

• Responsible use of antibiotics can help stop resistant bacteria.

• By stopping resistant bacteria, we will keep antibiotics working for future generations.

-Automatic translation

Antibiotics should only be used when needed because overuse can make bacteria resistant.

It won't help you to take antibiotics when you don't need them. For example, antibiotics are not effective in the case of viral infections such as colds and flu. In most cases, the immune system should be able to control simple infections. Taking antibiotics will not help you get better or prevent viruses from spreading between people.

• Only a doctor can correctly diagnose the infection and decide if you need antibiotics.

• Do not take antibiotics without a doctor's prescription.

• If you have a cold and your doctor decides you don't need antibiotics, take good care of yourself so you get better.

• If your symptoms do not improve or worsen within the time frame specified by your doctor, you may need to be re-examined.

-Automatic translation

If your symptoms do not improve or worsen within the time frame specified by your doctor, you may need to be re-examined.