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World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week (WAAW) 18 November – 24 November 2025

If you get poorly and need antibiotics you expect them to work but antibiotic-resistant infections are becoming more common and if you get one it means antibiotics are less likely to work.

This can mean a much more serious infection, a stay in hospital and in some cases these infections can lead to death.

To help keep antibiotics working:

  • Don’t take antibiotics for colds and flu. They won’t work and it will contribute to making antibiotics less effective.
  • Take them as directed by your GP, nurse or pharmacist
  • Don’t save leftover antibiotics for late, they don’t work

For more information visit the NHS website.