This is "Get Smart About Antibiotics Week" Antibiotics are used in First Aid first aid treatment regularly, but have other uses in medical care. World Antibiotic Awareness Week is sponsored by WHO, and Get Smart About Antibiotics Week is sponsored simultaneously by the CDC. Antibiotic WeekAs part of Get Smart About Antibiotics Week, today Dr. Martin Blaser discusses the importance of prescribing and using antibiotics appropriately to avoid unnecessary short-term side effects, like rashes and diarrhea, and long-term consequences, like antibiotic resistance. Antibiotics have done untold good, but a growing body of research shows an association between early-life exposures to antibiotics and chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes, and obesity—so antibiotics should only be prescribed and used when necessary. Read more. Stop the global threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)
Alexander Fleming discovered the first antibiotic – penicillin – in 1928, at a time when the world’s population was less than 1/3 of what it is today and commercial air travel was not yet commonplace. In our century, dangerous bacteria can quickly spread from person to person across the globe. When these bacteria become resistant to the drugs we use against them, common infections can turn into deadly threats.
And don’t forget: Learn more about Get Smart About Antibiotics Week 5 Things to Know 1) Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are increasing all over the world, including the United States. 2) The full impact of antibiotic resistance is unknown: there is currently no system in place to track antibiotic resistance globally. 3) The global use of antibiotics by humans increased by more than 30 percent between 2000 and 2010. 4) About 80 percent of antibiotic use takes place in the community. Unchecked use in outpatient and non-prescription settings is a major issue. 5) The good news is that patients, providers, and policymakers can all take action to stop antibiotic resistance.