Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board (ICB) is joining the global call to use antibiotics wisely.
Bacteria are becoming resistant to medicines at an alarming rate, turning once-treatable infections into potentially life-threatening conditions. This growing crisis—known as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) – is deepening health inequalities across our society.
Recent figures reveal that:
- People in deprived areas face a 42% higher risk of developing antibiotic-resistant infections.
- Asian and Asian British communities experience the highest proportion of antibiotic-resistant infections, accounting for nearly 40% of all cases.
Amin Mitha, Associate Director for Medicines Optimisation said:
“Antimicrobial resistance is one of the biggest public health threats of our time. We all have a role to play in slowing its spread – by using antibiotics only when needed and as directed by a healthcare professional. Do not save some for later or share them with friends and family. Treat antibiotics with respect and they will be there to help us all in the future.”
Everyone can help stop the spread of antibiotic resistance by following a few simple steps:
- Remember: Antibiotics don’t work for colds, flu, or most coughs – your body can fight these infections naturally.
- Only use antibiotics when prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional.
- Always complete the full course of treatment as directed.
- Never save leftover antibiotics or share them with others.
To support this message, the ICB has created a series of short videos featuring a pharmacist, GP, patient, and microbiologist, who each discuss the risks of taking antibiotics when you don’t need them – and how- and how everyone can help protect themselves and their communities by using antibiotics wisely.