Antibiotics campaign

Viral infections are much more common than bacterial infections. All colds and most coughs and sore throats are caused by viruses.

Antibiotics do not work against infections, such as colds, caused by viruses. Bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics are becoming more common. Some bacteria are resistant to multiple antibiotics and this makes infections more difficult to treat and can increase the length and severity of illnesses.

The best way to treat most colds, coughs or sore throats is plenty of fluids and rest. For more advice talk to your pharmacist or doctor. Find out more about antibiotics by reading Without Antibiotics leaflet.

What is it and how will it affect my family?

Public Health England have issued a video explaining the consequences of a world without effective antibiotics but also to offer advice to parents on how they can keep their families well.

Public Health England said there are an estimated 400,000 cases of reported antibiotic-resistant infections in the European Union each year, with 25,000 deaths