multi-resistant bacterium - a myth?

Recent health news highlighted the over-use of antibiotics in developed countries. Patients often insist that they "need" antibiotics to get over that simple cold.

However, multi resistant bacterial strains are becoming ever more common worldwide. Worryingly, an increasing number of bugs are resistant to our last line of defense treatments and medical science is struggling to keep up.

For those of you who feel the rise of the multi-resistant super bacterium is a myth, a story used by Doctors to frighten (naughty) patients; or something that won't happen until far into the future; let us highlight that this is happening - right now!

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/…/us-woman-killed-superbug-resi…/

​Contrary to what some may believe, antibiotic resistance is a problem in the here and now and we all have a duty to try to prevent this looming crisis. Without effective antibiotics, medicine could return to the dark ages with simple operations and infections that could previously be cured with antibiotics becoming a major health risk.

As medical professionals we can do our part to slow this process down by careful and appropriate prescribing of antibiotics and educating our patients on when they are and are not indicated. Engage your Doctors and openly discuss if your condition warrants the use of antibiotics. Do not push for antibiotics when Doctors advise against their use; equally, please ensure you complete your course of antibiotics when prescribed to avoid the development of antibiotic resistant strains of bacterium.

For patients who are thinking of coming down for a consultation over at Katong Family Clinic, we have two dedicated Doctors (Dr Sarah Packer & Dr Jack Lee) here to help, advise and treat you. Call us on 6203 4192 to make an appointment!