Cyprus Health Ministry Stresses Rational Use of Antibiotics
The Ministry of Health emphasizes the importance of responsible antibiotic use, noting that Cyprus records high consumption and increased rates of antimicrobial resistance, increasing the risk to public health.
On the occasion of the European Antibiotic Awareness Day, the Ministry warns that antimicrobial resistance makes treating infections more difficult or even impossible.
According to the Ministry, antibiotics are critical drugs, but their irrational or incorrect use reduces the effectiveness of treatments. It notes that thousands of deaths occur annually in the EU due to infections from resistant microbes.
This year's campaign, with the message Ā«From Resistance to ResilienceĀ», emphasizes the crucial role of health professionals in the transition towards a more resilient society and health system.
The Ministry reminds that antibiotics should only be taken with a medical prescription and according to the doctor's instructions, as they are not suitable for viral infections such as the common cold or flu. It adds that the correct use of antibiotics, combined with preventive measures such as vaccination, hand hygiene and environmental cleanliness, strengthens the 'shield of protection' against antimicrobial resistance.
The Ministry emphasizes that tackling antimicrobial resistance is a collective effort, involving the health system, professionals and every citizen.
CYPE