Experts warn that as pandemic restrictions are relaxed, antibiotic-resistant bloodstream infections may increase.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) stated that drug-resistant bloodstream infections declined in 2020 for the first time since 2016, but they may rise again when restrictions are lifted.
The government agency stated that the number of such infections in 2020 has fallen for the first time since 2016, but is still higher than six years ago.
Due to reduced social interactions, improved hand hygiene, and fewer hospitalizations, the number of these infected people dropped from 65,583 in 2019 to U.K It will reach 55,384 by 2020.
As we enter winter, the number of respiratory infections in the circulation continues to increase. It is important to remember that many cold-like symptoms do not require antibiotics
However, the proportion of bloodstream infections that are resistant to certain antibiotics has increased during the same period, which means that these infections may increase as people mix freely again.
antibiotic It can be used to treat coughs, earaches and sore throats, but it is also essential to treat bacterial infections that cause pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis, and to prevent infections during chemotherapy.
When bacteria no longer respond to treatment, antibiotic resistance develops, leading to serious complications.
Dr. Susan Hopkins, UKHSA’s Chief Medical Advisor, said: “AMR (Antimicrobial Resistance) is described as a hidden epidemic, and it is important that we do not get rid of Covid-19 and fall into another crisis.
“It is very likely that the Covid-19 restrictions in 2020, including strengthening infection, prevention and control measures, may also play a role in reducing antibiotic resistance and prescriptions.
“Although these measures are severe, if we act irresponsibly, severe antibiotic resistance infections will rise again, which can be as simple as washing hands regularly and thoroughly.
“As we enter winter, the number of respiratory infections in the circulation continues to increase. It is important to remember that many cold-like symptoms do not require antibiotics.
“If you feel unwell, please stay at home.
“Taking antibiotics when antibiotics are not needed will only put you and your loved ones at greater risk in the future, so please follow the advice of your general practitioner, nurse, dentist or pharmacist.”
UKHSA said that people should only take antibiotics when needed, not to treat minor illnesses, because taking antibiotics increases the possibility of harmful bacteria in the body developing resistance.
For this reason, efforts have been made to reduce antibiotic prescriptions.
UKSHA said that due to the reduction of antibiotics for respiratory infections, the prescriptions of general practitioners have decreased in recent years.
