Antimicrobial Resistance for Community Members

Florida Community Members Combat Antibiotic Resistance 

Protect Yourself & Your Family

Infections cause by antibiotic-resistant germs are difficult, and sometimes impossible, to treat- but we can help stop the spread of these germs. Antibiotic resistance happens when germs like bacteria and fungi develop the ability to defeat the drugs designed to kill them.

No one can completely avoid getting an infection, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk.

How can I protect myself and my family from antibiotic resistance?

Protect yourself and your family from antibiotic resistance by

• doing your best to stay healthy and keep others healthy,
• cleaning hands, covering coughs,
• staying home when sick, and
• getting recommended vaccines, such as the flu vaccine.

Taking antibiotics only when they are needed is an important way you can protect yourself and your family from antibiotic resistance. Talk to your doctor about the best treatment if you are sick. Never pressure your doctor to prescribe an antibiotic.

When antibiotics aren’t needed, they won’t help you, and their side effects could still cause harm. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about steps you can take to feel better when an antibiotic isn’t needed.

If your doctor decided an antibiotic is the best treatment when you are sick:

• Take the antibiotic exactly as your doctor tells you
• Do not share your antibiotics with others.
• Do not save them for later. Talk to your pharmacist about safely discarding leftover medicines.
• Do not take antibiotics prescribed for someone else. This may delay the best treatment for you, make you even sicker, or cause side effects.
• Talk with your doctor and pharmacist if you have any questions about your antibiotics.

CDC Resource: Combat Antibiotic Resistance