With COVID-19 and other viral outbreaks, it’s essential we all stay focused on infection control and careful antibiotic use. 

Everyone who prescribes and uses antibiotics: the public, healthcare staff, vets, and agricultural farmers play a part in preventing misuse.

Antibiotic use in young children, especially under age 4, is high and often unnecessary, which can harm their gut health. Respiratory infections are common in kids and lead to many doctor visits—around 40% of children receive antibiotics for chest infections.

We all play a part in protecting our health and fighting antibiotic resistance.

• Understand the right treatment: Antibiotics don’t work for COVID-19 or other viruses, as they only treat bacterial infections. Using them when not needed can cause side effects and contribute to antibiotic resistance.
• Stay safe with prevention: To protect yourself and others, follow hygiene guidelines like regular hand washing and getting recommended vaccinations. These steps help prevent serious infections and keep everyone safer.
• Why responsible antibiotic use matters: Overusing antibiotics can make them less effective. By using them only when truly needed, we help ensure they’ll work when we really need them.