The Algarve’s regional health authority has reported a decrease of around 10%, between 2009 and 2017, in the number of packs of antibiotics prescribed in local health centers.
"This decrease in antibacterial consumption is of great importance in improving the control of resistance to antibiotics and in its correct and effective use in the treatment of a wide range of bacterial infections," says the delighted authority.
Antibiotics should be used "only when strictly necessary," in accordance with the guidelines from the Directorate-General for Health.
With the publication of this report covering the region’s health centres, the authority hopes to see a continuation of the trend while getting the message out that, for common wintertime viral infections, antibiotics should not be used at all.
Every year, in November, the World Health Organisation dedicates a week to antibiotics, aiming at raising everyone's awareness for their correct use. This should reduce consumption and prevent the resistance to antibiotics.
"Antibiotics are used improperly when, for example, they are used for the treatment of colds and flu - diseases caused by viruses against which antibiotics do not work or are used incorrectly as the duration of treatment is not adhered to," says the health authority.
"The ability of bacteria to resist antibiotics is increasing globally and no new antibiotics have been developed, thus there is a serious threat to public health" concludes the health authority which also saves taxpayers’ money as consumption declines.
