Complete your prescribed antibiotic course. Don’t stop early, even if you feel better. Stopping treatment prematurely allows resistant bacteria to survive and multiply.
Practice excellent hygiene. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the restroom and before eating. This significantly reduces the spread of infection.
Prevent infections. Get vaccinated against preventable illnesses like influenza and pneumonia. These vaccinations reduce your need for antibiotics.
Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use. Don’t pressure your doctor to prescribe antibiotics for viral infections like the common cold or flu; antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. Discuss alternative treatments with your doctor.
Prepare food safely. Follow proper food handling guidelines to minimize the risk of foodborne illnesses, reducing the need for antibiotic treatment.
Safe sex practices are crucial. Practice safe sex to lower your risk of sexually transmitted infections, many of which can be treated with antibiotics.
Support responsible antibiotic use in livestock. Advocate for policies promoting responsible antibiotic use in animal agriculture, as overuse in animals contributes to antibiotic resistance.
Inform yourself. Stay updated on antibiotic resistance and best practices for infection prevention through reliable sources like the CDC and WHO websites.
