A few people misusing antibiotics could be detrimental for most of the population(Image: GETTY)

Antibiotic misuse could see common illnesses harboring sepsis risk, experts warn

Antibiotic resistant infections have surpassed pre-pandemic levels and are responsible for a staggering 66,730 antibiotic-resistant bloodstream infections last year

by · The Mirror

Startling new figures have laid bare the grim scenario confronting Brits, with health experts urging people to rethink their approach to taking medication. The latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) throw a spotlight on an alarming rise in antibiotic resistant infections.

A total of 66,730 cases were counted last year, up from 62,314 before the pandemic hit, suggesting the rise of superbugs that are harder to beat and lay sufferers low with more severe symptoms like bloodstream infections leading to sepsis and hospital admissions. Bugs resistant to antibiotics mean patients could endure longer bouts of illness, riddled with complications and lasting side effects while waiting for treatments to kick in.

The number of resistance infections has already surpassed pre-pandemic levels( Image: GETTY)

Those unfortunate enough to catch a strain defiant to one or several drugs face higher chances of death within 30 days than those with antibiotic-sensitive bugs. UKHSA's Chief Executive, Professor Dame Jenny Harries, issued a stark caution: "That’s not just an inconvenience – it means they are at greater risk of developing a severe infection and sepsis. Our declining ability to treat and prevent infections is having an increasing impact, particularly on our poorest communities."

The majority of antibiotic-resistant bloodstream infections over the past five years have been traced back to bacteria typically responsible for urinary tract infections, diarrhoea, vomiting and fevers, E. Coli. Resistance often develops naturally, but it's usually exacerbated by the misuse of antibiotics.

Not completing a course of medication, incorrect dosing, or using antibiotics without a prescription can lead to bacteria adapting to the drugs, rendering them ineffective. The professor emphasised: "There are steps everyone can take. Take up the vaccinations you are eligible for to help stop infections in the first place. Only take antibiotics if you have been told to do so by a healthcare professional. Do not save some for later or share them with friends and family."

The experts urged people to only use antibiotics exactly as prescribed by a medical professional( Image: GETTY)

Last year's data also shed light on the socioeconomic aspects of antibiotic resistance, revealing that individuals from deprived areas were 42.6% more likely to contract a resistant infection—a significant increase from the 29.4% reported in 2019. Campaigner Caroline Sampson has opened up about her life-altering experience with a relentless antibiotic-resistant infection, saying: "For 8 and a half years, I have had a chronic urinary tract infection (UTI). No form of antibiotics has successfully treated it. It has derailed my life in every possible way. The daily symptoms are debilitating and painful. "

She expressed the immense challenge she faces, "Trying to accomplish the smallest task takes a huge amount of effort. The impact on my mental health has been enormous and I live with daily anxiety that the infection could develop into urosepsis. I just want my life back. The threat of antibiotic-resistant infections to us all cannot be underestimated."