East Yorkshire and Northern Lincolnshire health bosses urge people to avoid unnecessary antibiotics

The NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board is urging the public to help combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use this winter.

Clinical leaders in the region have highlighted that antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections and do not treat viral infections, such as the flu or common colds, which are now beginning to circulate more widely.

Dr Nigel Wells, Executive Director for Clinical and Professional at the NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: "With common winter viruses, there’s no quick fix – no silver bullet. Our bodies are usually capable of fighting off viral infections on their own by activating the immune system.

"After a week or two, most people will start to feel better without the need for antibiotics. Unless there are underlying health conditions or other aggravating factors, I typically advise self-care and a visit to a local pharmacy for over-the-counter remedies rather than issuing a prescription."

What is antimicrobial resistance (AMR)?

Antimicrobial resistance occurs when germs like bacteria, viruses, and fungi become resistant to the drugs designed to kill them. This resistance makes bacterial infections harder to treat, increases the spread of illness, and can result in severe, life-threatening conditions.

The NHS stresses that taking antibiotics when they are not needed can cause these medicines to become less effective in the future, potentially leaving patients vulnerable to infections that would otherwise have been treatable.

Tips for managing winter illnesses

The public is advised not to rely on antibiotics for common winter ailments like coughs and colds. Instead, the NHS has shared the following tips for recovery:

Get plenty of bed rest

Stay hydrated by drinking lots of fluids, particularly water

Speak to your local pharmacy team about over-the-counter remedies, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen

“Many common illnesses can be managed at home with a well-stocked medicine cabinet," said Laura Angus, Chief Pharmacy Officer for NHS Humber and North Yorkshire ICB. She added: "If you do need to see your GP, please follow their advice and only use antibiotics when absolutely necessary. Always complete the full course if prescribed and seek advice from your local pharmacy if needed."

Preventing the spread of winter illnesses

To help slow the spread of winter viruses, the NHS advises:

Staying home and avoiding contact with others when unwell

Washing hands regularly with soap and water, or using alcohol-based hand sanitiser

Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, and disposing of tissues properly

Those eligible for flu and COVID-19 vaccinations are encouraged to get vaccinated. More information is available on the NHS website.

Unused antibiotics should never be saved for later or shared with others. The NHS advises returning any unused antibiotics to pharmacies for proper disposal to prevent environmental harm.

Further health and wellbeing advice can be found on the Let's Get Better campaign website: Let's get better - Let's Get Better

Parents concerned about their child’s symptoms can also find specific advice on the Healthier Together website at: https://www.hnyhealthiertogether.nhs.uk/child-under-5-years

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