Beware of Antibiotic Resistance -- Use Antibiotics Properly

What are antibiotics?
Antibiotics are effective drugs for treating bacterial infections ΅V not viral infections. There are many kinds of antibiotics for treating different types of bacterial infections. Therefore, antibiotics usage should only be under doctor's prescription.
Antibiotics, like any drugs, may cause side effects and allergic reactions. In addition, misuse of antibiotics may increase the risk of emergence of antibiotic resistant bacteria. Antibiotics must only be used appropriately under doctor's instruction.

Can antibiotic resistant bacteria affect us?
Yes. Antibiotic resistance has now become an important public health threat because infections due to antibiotic resistant bacteria are very difficult to treat.

When I need to take antibiotic, can I help to prevent the emergence of antibiotic resistant bacteria?
Yes. When you are taking antibiotics, the following points must be followed carefully to prevent the emergence of antibiotic resistant bacteria:
- Antibiotics should only be taken at your doctor's prescription
- Follow your doctor's prescription to take antibiotics on the right time at the right dose. If you miss one dose, take it as soon as you remember but never take a double dose.
- Do not stop taking antibiotics halfway. Subsided symptoms do not mean that the bacteria have been completely killed.
- To ensure that the infection is totally under control, confirm the number of days of treatment regimen with your doctor or pharmacist and complete the whole course accordingly even if your condition has improved.
- Never share your antibiotics with other people or leave them for later use.
- If you feel unwell after taking antibiotics, consult your doctor immediately.

In addition, you are advised to enhance personal hygiene while you are taking antibiotics to
protect yourself and to prevent spread of bacteria:
- Keep hands clean.
- Eat only well-cooked food. Drink only boiled water.
- Wear mask if you have respiratory symptoms like cough, sneezes, runny nose and sore throat.
- Disinfect and cover all wounds.
- Refrain from school for children who cannot comply with personal hygiene.

Follow your doctor's prescription and use antibiotics properly

For more health information, members of the public may visit or contact Centre for Health Protection Website: www.chp.gov.hk
24-Hour Health Education Hotline of the Department of Health: 2833 0111
Source: Department of Health
VI/vn/No. 55 (Sept-2008)