Campaign aims to slow antibiotic resistance

Health experts in County Durham are urging patients to join the battle against a rising resistance to antibiotics.

The County Durham Clinical Commissioning Group area has the highest rate of prescribing antibiotics in the country – but a growing number of infections, including pneumonia, tuberculosis and salmonellosis, are becoming harder to treat as the antibiotics used to treat them become less effective.

This is because bacteria evolve to resist the effect of antibiotics – especially if they are used incorrectly.

Dr Neil O'Brien, chief clinical officer for County Durham CCG said: “If we don’t take action, antibiotic resistance will become a huge problem, causing infections that can't be treated.

"While antibiotics are really important in the prevention and treatment of infections when used appropriately, it is estimated that at least 20% of all antibiotic prescriptions are not needed, and this is accelerating the problem of resistance"

He added: "County Durham CCG has the highest rate of prescribing in the country, which is why we are pleased to launch the Seriously campaign to raise awareness of this issue with our patients and the public and to encourage people to only use antibiotics if they are needed.

“Together we can work to slow down antibiotic resistance and keep antibiotics working for the future.”

The Seriously campaign is being launched on social media and in schools to coincide with World Antibiotic Awareness Week.

It aims to raise awareness of the issue of antibiotic resistance, reduce misuse of the treatment and encourage people to consider the alternatives.