The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has urged the public not to use antibiotics to treat colds or flu. Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections, including the common cold and influenza, as they only target bacterial pathogens. The agency emphasizes the importance of using antibiotics only when advised by a healthcare professional, as well as the potential risks associated with misuse.
Taking antibiotics unnecessarily contributes to the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a growing global health concern. UKHSA highlighted the real and immediate threat of AMR, citing an increase in serious antibiotic-resistant infections. This phenomenon occurs when bacteria evolve to withstand the effects of antibiotics, rendering these medications less effective in treating infections.
To combat AMR, the public is urged to adhere to healthcare professionals' guidance regarding antibiotic use, refrain from stockpiling antibiotics, and strictly follow prescribed antibiotic regimens. Additionally, the agency underscored the heightened risk of AMR within Black British and Asian British communities, emphasizing the need for targeted efforts to address this issue.