Antibiotic Resistance
Antibiotic resistance has become a concern in the recent years. This is largely due to the misuse of antibiotics, leading to the bacteria developing the ability to evade and resist the effects of antibiotics.
Why should we worry about antibiotic resistance?
1.Health risks/severe infections”
When one is infected with bacteria that have developed antibiotic resistance, it would mean that there are limited or no antibiotics that are effective in battling these bacteria. This could lead to longer recovery time or overwhelming infections which the body is unable to fight off and may ultimately cause disability or even death.
2. Increased cost of treatment
When tackling bacteria which are resistant, doctors may recommend second- or third-line tablet antibiotics alternatives. This means using stronger antibiotics which are more costly and can only be administered through intravenous methods in the hospital.
How do I know if I need antibiotics?
Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections and will not have any effect on viral infections. Some examples of viral infections include the common cold, influenza, COVID-19. Other examples of bacterial infections include strep throat, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections.
If you are unwell, do consult a doctor for a thorough assessment to determine if you are suffering from a viral or bacterial infection.
Common myths debunked!
My phlegm is green, so I must be having a bacterial infection.
- The colour of your phlegm neither indicates a viral nor a bacterial infection. It reflects that your body is producing more white blood cells to fight the infection which may result in a green tinge to your phlegm.
I have been coughing for 5 days, I need antibiotics to recover.
- Typically, a viral respiratory tract infection may last 7-10 days, but it is not uncommon to have symptoms for 2-3 weeks. You can help with your recovery by keeping yourself well-hydrated and getting plenty of rest. Doctors can provide you with medication to alleviate your symptoms.
Antibiotics will help me to recover from my flu faster.
- Antibiotics have zero effect on viruses which typically causes the common cold and influenza. Your body will be able to clear the infection with time. Doctors can prescribe medication to alleviate your symptoms while your immune system does the hard work!
I can stop my antibiotics once I feel better.
- You should always complete the course of antibiotics prescribed to you. Your symptoms usually improve before all the bacteria are killed. Completing your course would help to kill off the remaining bacteria and minimise development of antibiotic resistance.
I can take left over antibiotics belonging to my family or from my previous doctor’s visits.
- There are many types of antibiotics available, and antibiotics prescribed by a doctor for someone else should never be shared. Previous antibiotics may also not be the best choice for your current infection as well. Always see a doctor to get the most appropriate antibiotics.
In Summary
- Take antibiotics as prescribed, complete your course unless you are told otherwise.
- Do not share your antibiotics with friends/family. Dispose of any leftover antibiotics once you have completed your prescribed course.
- Antibiotics are not suitable for treatment of viral infections.
- When in doubt, consult a doctor who can help to determine if antibiotics are indicated!2