20 APRIL 2016
ANTIBIOTIC RESEARCH IS HEARTENING BUT INDIVIDUAL ACTION STILL NEEDED
Following from last night’s Catalyst episode, ‘Antibiotic Resistance’ on ABC TV examining Australia’s profligate use of antibiotics, NPS MedicineWise is reminding Australians to preserve the miracle of antibiotics by avoiding antibiotics when they’re not needed.
The program highlighted how for something that is a limited and valuable resource, prescriptions for antibiotics are wasted when they are used on viral infections, such as ordinary colds and flu.
As the winter cold and flu season edges closer, individuals are once again being urged to take action by not expecting, asking for or taking antibiotics when they have viral infections.
NPS MedicineWise Medical Adviser Dr Jeannie Yoo says that the overuse and misuse of antibiotics is contributing to resistance, meaning that previously effective antibiotics may no longer work against particular bacteria, “Without effective antibiotics, infections that were once easy to treat may eventually become untreatable.
“It is very heartening to see the work of Australian researchers who are dedicated to finding the next class of antibiotics. However, it could be many years until any new discovery is made available, and even then, we will still have the issue of antibiotic resistance. It is crucial that all of us take individual responsibility now to ensure our existing antibiotics continue to be effective. Individuals through their own actions and choices can be part of the solution.”
This winter, NPS MedicineWise will once again be undertaking a public awareness campaign urging people not to ask for antibiotics when they’re not needed, such as for ordinary colds and flu. More information on the use of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance is available on the NPS MedicineWise website here.
The health profession-led initiative Choosing Wisely Australia®, facilitated by NPS MedicineWise, has also been taking action on antibiotic resistance, with many of the recommendations for treatments that may not be necessary focusing on the wise and judicious use of antibiotics. The recommendations are available for viewing here.
13 April 2016
Excellence in media reporting
Entries are now open for the category ‘Excellence in media reporting’ in the biannual National Medicinewise Awards.
This award category recognises Australian media articles or broadcasts that have raised awareness of significant medicines or medical test issues, either among health professionals or the general public.
The winning report will be judged on clinical accuracy, unique angle, impact of the story and depth of investigation.
To find out more, and submit an entry go to http://www.nps.org.au/about-us/what-we-do/campaigns-events/national-medicines-symposium/national-medicinewise-awards.
In 2014, the award for Excellence in media reporting was won by Amy Corderoy for the article “Wellness Inc”, published in The Sydney Morning Herald.
A flyer about the awards is attached to display in your office. If you have any further queries, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Entries close 22 April 2016.