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Fewer islanders are being prescribed antibiotics in the community in Guernsey and Alderney.
In 2016 there were almost 8,000 fewer courses prescribed by local doctors than in 2011 (a 12% fall in prescribing rates) and the use of the most potent antibiotics has halved.
Geraldine O’Riordan, Prescribing Advisor says
“Only prescribing antibiotics where they are truly appropriate has been a priority on the islands for several years. This considerable fall in the prescribing is great news and I would like to thank our doctors for their efforts. I believe that this is an example of the benefits of collaborative working between primary and secondary care, as well as the engagement of our patients.’
This reduction is extremely important because antibiotic resistant organisms are an increasing problem and concern, both in hospitals and in the wider community. Poor antibiotic prescribing is recognised to be behind a large part of this problem. No new antibiotics have been discovered for several years.
This is not about never using antibiotics, it is about using them wisely. Antibiotics aren't effective for uncomplicated viral infections such as the common cold. For adults who are otherwise healthy many milder bacterial infections will resolve in a couple of days without active treatment. These drugs can cause unpleasant side effects and increase resistance in the individual and in the community.
