Who is this page for?
This page is for members of the public, healthcare professionals and anyone interested in antimicrobial resistance and the responsible use of antibiotics.
About antimicrobial resistance
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites, develop the ability to resist medicines that were previously effective in treating infections.
Antibiotic resistance is the most common type of AMR and is recognised as one of the biggest global public health challenges. When antibiotics are used unnecessarily or incorrectly, bacteria can become resistant, making infections more difficult to treat.
Understanding antimicrobial resistance
What are antimicrobials?
Antimicrobials are medicines used to treat infections caused by microorganisms. They include:
- antibiotics
- antivirals
- antifungals
- antiparasitic medicines
What are antibiotics?
Antibiotics are important medicines used to treat bacterial infections. Antibiotics DO NOT treat infections caused by viruses.
Click on the video below to watch Antibiotic Awareness campaign
Antibiotics have been one of the most important life-saving medical developments of the last century.
However, they are not effective against all types of bacteria (so-called intrinsic resistance). In addition, some bacteria can develop tolerance to certain antibiotics or develop ways to break them down (so-called extrinsic resistance). In either case, if these resistant bacteria go on to cause an infection it can be much more difficult to treat.
If the use of antibiotics remains unchecked, common infections will become more dangerous, and surgical procedures where antibiotics are used such as routine hip replacements and caesarean sections will become more difficult to perform safely.
What are viral infections?
Viral infections are very common. They include all colds and flu, and many infections of the nose, sinuses, ears, throat and chest (coughs/bronchitis).
If your feeling unwell antibiotics aren’t always needed. Here are some guidelines to help you judge how long some common illness and symptoms should last for:
| Common illnesses | Most people are better by |
| Earache (middle ear infection) | 8 days |
| Sore throat | 7-8 days |
| Cough / bronchitis | 21 – 28 days |
| Sinusitis (adults only) | 21 – 28 days |
| Eye infection | 7 – 14 days |
| Norovirus (Winter vomiting) | 2 – 3 days |
What is antibiotic resistance?
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria change over time and become resistant to antibiotics. This means antibiotics no longer work as effectively, making infections more difficult to treat and increasing the risk of complications.
Using antibiotics responsibly
Everyone can help reduce antimicrobial resistance by using antibiotics responsibly. You should:
- only take antibiotics when prescribed
- complete the prescribed course
- never share antibiotics
- never keep leftover antibiotics
- don't pressure your GP for antibiotics
Preventing antimicrobial resistance
Many people can carry antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria without feeling unwell or showing any symptoms. Just as infections can spread between family members, resistant bugs can also be passed from person to person through everyday contact. This means anyone can unknowingly spread AMR organisms to loved ones or vulnerable individuals.
You can help by:
- washing your hands regularly
- keeping vaccinations up to date
- practicing good respiratory hygiene
- staying home if unwell when appropriate
- taking antibiotics only when you really need them and when they have been recommended for you by a healthcare professional.
Antibiotics may cause side effects such as thrust, diarrhoea, rash and stomach upset. They can also cause allergic reactions, which may occasionally be severe. It is important to discuss all antibiotic treatments fully with your healthcare professional.
How the Public Health Agency (PHA) helps
The PHA works with HSC organisations, laboratories, healthcare professionals and partner agencies to reduce antimicrobial resistance across Northern Ireland.
Our work includes:
- monitoring antimicrobial use and resistance through surveillance, publishing of AMR reports
- supporting infection prevention and control
- promoting the responsible use of antimicrobials
- raising public awareness through campaigns, programmes and contributing to regional, national and international strategies such us:
One Health action plan
Antibiotics are used in humans, agriculture, and animals. This is why the World Health Organisation has adopted the “One Health” approach to address this issue.
- UK 20-year vision for antimicrobial resistance - GOV.UK
- UK 5-year action plan for antimicrobial resistance 2024 to 2029 - GOV.UK
In Northern Ireland, the PHA are working with partners from across One Health sectors to achieve the commitments and outcomes within the 5-year national action plan.
e-Bug
e-Bug is a free, online educational science resource for pupils in primary and post primary school covering the topics of microbiology, hygiene and health.
It teaches children and young adults in Key Stage 1 to Key Stage 5 about microorganisms and the spread, prevention and treatment of infection.
Visit e-Bug site for more information.
Become an Antibiotic Guardian campaign
Antibiotic Guardian is a campaign that helps people take simple steps to protect antibiotics so they continue to work when we need them. By making a pledge, such as only taking antibiotics when advised by a healthcare professional, you can help slow the spread of antibiotic resistance and protect these important medicines for future generations.
To become an antibiotic guardian visit www.antibioticguardian.com
Surveillance and monitoring
The PHA monitors antimicrobial use and antimicrobial resistance across Northern Ireland.
Surveillance helps to:
- identify trends in antimicrobial resistance
- monitor antimicrobial prescribing and use
- inform public health policy and clinical practice