273_3993720_Proper Use of Antibiotics.ppt

Safe Use of Antibiotics,March 2011(Simplified version),What are Antibiotics?,Antibiotics are used for treating bacterial infectionsThey do not work for viral infections such as a cold or the flu,Are There Any Risks of Using antibiotics?,Side effects-Each type of antibiotic has its specific side effects-Common symptoms include:nausea,vomiting,constipation or diarrhoea and headache Allergic reactions-e.g.Skin rash,itchiness and breathlessness-If you have any allergic reaction(s)after taking antibiotics,you should bring the drugs to consult a doctor promptlyIncrease the risk of infections due to resistant bacteria,What are Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria?,Bacteria change in ways to become resistant to the antibiotics which they are previously sensitive toThat is,the previous effective treatment is no longer capable of controlling the same infectionWhen the bacteria become resistant to most antibiotics,they are referred to as“superbugs”,Infection due to Resistant Bacteria,While taking antibiotics,they will also kill the normal bacteria in our body and increase the risk of acquiring more resistant bacteriaInfections due to resistant bacteria are very difficult to treatPosing a significant threat to population health,Points to Note When Taking Antibiotics,Consult the doctor for using the right drug for the disease and follow health professionals instructions on using antibioticsNever share antibiotics with other people or store them up for later useEnhance personal protective measures-Maintain proper hand hygiene-Consume food or drinks that are thoroughly cooked or boiled-Disinfect and cover all wounds properly-Wear a mask while having respiratory symptoms-Young children with symptoms of infection should minimise contact with other children,Summary,Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections,they do not work for a cold or the fluConsult a doctor first,let him decide if antibiotics are neededAntibiotics kill normal bacteria in our body,increase the chance of acquiring resistant bacteriaEnhance personal hygiene when taking antibiotics,