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Get Smart About Antibiotic Use

By Florida Department of Health, Office of Communications

November 16, 2015

Florida Health Logo

Nov. 16, 2015

GET SMART ABOUT ANTIBIOTIC USE

 

Contact:
Communications Office
NewsMedia@flhealth.gov
(850) 245-4111

Tallahassee, Fla.—Nov. 16–22 is Get Smart About Antibiotics Week and the Florida Department of Health is working to raise awareness about the importance of appropriate antibiotic use, prescribing and the risk of antibiotic resistance. Antibiotics are commonly given, but are often prescribed when they are not needed, reducing their effectiveness.

“When used appropriately, antibiotics are effective in fighting common bacterial infections,” said State Surgeon General and Secretary of Health Dr. John Armstrong. “However, we must be sure that practice patterns respect the growing challenge of antibiotic resistance.”

Antibiotics have been in widespread use for the last 70 years and are typically used to treat infections caused by bacteria. However, the improper use of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance. According to the CDC, up to 50 percent of the time antibiotics are prescribed for people who do not need them or at a time when their effectiveness may be reduced.

Here are some steps you can take to stay smart about antibiotics:

  • Take the antibiotic exactly as the doctor prescribes;
  • Do not share leftover antibiotics or save them for a future illness; and
  • Do not ask for antibiotics when your doctor thinks you do not need them.

For more information about Get Smart About Antibiotics Week, visit the CDC’s website.

About the Florida Department of Health

The department works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health, please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.

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