Antimicrobial resistance (AMR)

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 may infections of the nose, sinuses, ears, throat and chest (coughs / bronchitis). Most viral infections improve on their own over time and do not require antibiotics. You can manage the symptoms of these illnesses with rest, fluids and self-care. Your local pharmacy will offer advice on symptom relief. Practising good hand and respiratory hygiene can help prevent viruses spreading to friends, family and the wider community. 

How long does it take to get better? 

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:

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.

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 to prevent antibiotic resistance by 

• Washing your hands regularly
• Practicing good respiratory hygiene
• Keeping vaccinations up to date (move this below resp. hygiene please) 
• Staying home if unwell when appropriate
• Taking antibiotics only when they have been prescribed 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.

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 or healthcare professional for antibiotics

Antimicrobials 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 is a free, online educational resource science resource for teachers, with lessons for pupils in primary and post primary school covering the topics of microbes, hygiene and health.  

It teaches children and young adults in Foundation Stage to Key Stage 4 about microorganisms and the spread, prevention and treatment of infection.

Visit e-Bug site for more information.

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