5 simple ways that we can help stop superbugs

摘要

Public-focused guide providing five practical actions individuals can take to combat antimicrobial resistance, as antibiotic-resistant infections reach nearly 400 new cases weekly in England.

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Antibiotic-resistant infections are on the rise. Data published in autumn 2025 shows there are nearly 400 new cases reported every week in England. When bacteria adapt to survive antibiotics, vital medicines stop working when we need them most. But the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR) isn’t just for scientists and doctors - everyone can make a difference.

The AMR crisis:

400 new antibiotic-resistant infections weekly in England alone
10 million deaths annually projected by 2050 globally if unchecked
Common infections becoming untreatable
Routine surgeries at risk without effective antibiotics
Major threat to modern medicine

5 simple ways to help stop superbugs:

1. Only take antibiotics when prescribed

Don’t demand antibiotics: Trust healthcare professionals’ judgment
Viruses don’t need antibiotics: Colds, flu, most coughs and sore throats are viral
Antibiotics won’t work faster: Taking them unnecessarily drives resistance
Never save antibiotics: Don’t keep leftover antibiotics for later
Never share antibiotics: Prescriptions are specific to individual and condition

Why this matters: Every unnecessary antibiotic use gives bacteria opportunity to develop resistance. Using antibiotics only when truly needed preserves their effectiveness.

2. Complete the course

Finish all prescribed antibiotics: Even if feeling better
Don’t stop early: Incomplete courses allow resistant bacteria to survive
Follow instructions: Take at correct times and intervals
Store properly: Keep in original packaging with instructions

Why this matters: Stopping antibiotics early kills the weakest bacteria but allows stronger, potentially resistant bacteria to survive and multiply.

3. Prevent infections in the first place

Hand hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water (20 seconds)
Vaccination: Stay up-to-date with all recommended vaccines
Food safety: Proper cooking and storage prevents foodborne infections
Safe water: Drink clean, safe water
Wound care: Clean and cover cuts properly

Why this matters: Preventing infections means fewer antibiotics needed. Vaccines prevent bacterial infections that would require antibiotic treatment.

4. Practice good hygiene

Wash hands frequently: Before eating, after toilet, after coughing/sneezing
Cover coughs and sneezes: Use tissue or elbow
Stay home when sick: Prevent spreading infections
Clean surfaces: Regular disinfection of high-touch areas
Don’t share personal items: Towels, razors, toothbrushes

Why this matters: Good hygiene breaks chains of transmission, reducing infection spread and antibiotic use across the community.

5. Ask your pharmacist

Pharmacists are experts: Free advice on minor ailments
Many conditions don’t need antibiotics: Pharmacists can recommend alternatives
Self-care advice: How to manage symptoms while body fights infection
When to see GP: Pharmacists help identify when medical care needed
Medication reviews: Can identify antibiotic interactions or issues

Why this matters: Pharmacists can resolve many health issues without antibiotics, preventing unnecessary use while ensuring people get help when needed.

Additional actions:

Educate others: Share AMR awareness with family and friends
Support AMR campaigns: World AMR Awareness Week and similar initiatives
Advocate for change: Support policies addressing AMR
Responsible pet care: Use antibiotics for pets only as prescribed by vet

What happens if we don’t act:

Individual level:

Your infections may become untreatable
Longer illness, more complications
Higher risk from routine procedures

Society level:

Healthcare costs skyrocket
Common infections become deadly again
Modern medicine (surgery, chemotherapy, organ transplants) becomes too risky
Return to pre-antibiotic era

The good news: Everyone’s actions matter. Each time someone:

Accepts they don’t need antibiotics
Completes their antibiotic course
Washes their hands
Gets vaccinated

They help preserve these life-saving medicines for future generations.

Important message: Antibiotic resistance is one of the greatest threats to global health, but it’s not inevitable. Simple actions by millions of people add up to significant impact. By following these five steps, everyone can be part of the solution to keeping antibiotics working when we truly need them.

The fight against superbugs needs all of us. What will you do today?

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