Wolverhampton Together – Protecting our Antibiotics campaign

In Wolverhampton, the Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust, Wolverhampton CCG and City of Wolverhampton Council are working in partnership to address Antibiotic Resistance.  One of the key objectives of the joint action group is to improve awareness and understanding of antibiotic resistance through effective communication, education and training.  The Wolverhampton wide project is called Antibiotic Stewardship Programme (ASP) and we want the public and prescribers to recognise that antibiotics are a precious resource and should be preserved.

Antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest threats facing us today.  It occurs when the bacteria that cause infections begin to resist the effects of antibiotic medications previously used to treat them.  Without effective antibiotics, many routine treatments will become increasingly dangerous.  Setting broken bones, basic operations, even chemotherapy and animal health all rely on access to antibiotics that work.

We need everyone to be aware of the issue and play their part.  Everyone can help to protect this essential resource for the future by using antibiotics appropriately.  Antibiotics should be used to treat bacterial infections, only when prescribed by a certified health professional. Antibiotics should never be shared and the full course of treatment should be completed - not saved for the future. 

We are working with doctors and healthcare workers to reduce inappropriate prescribing of antibiotics and reduce rates of infection.  We are providing education to adults and children about the issue of antibiotic resistance and the importance of preventing the spread of infection through good hand hygiene.   
Click here to read about one of our award-winning initiatives.

• Do not take antibiotics for simple viral infections, like most coughs, colds and sore throats.
• When prescribed antibiotics, always complete the full course, even if you start to feel better.
• Return any unused antibiotics to your pharmacy.
• Never share antibiotics.
• Always practice good hand hygiene to help prevent the spread of infection.
• Sign up to Public Health England’s Antibiotic Guardian Campaign by following this link:   http://antibioticguardian.com​
  

'When Should I Worry?' booklet for parents
This booklet provides information for parents about the management of viral infections (coughs, colds, sore throats, and ear aches) in children.  The booklet can be downloaded in a variety of languages.  

Managing your infection
A step-by-step guide on how to manage your infection