NHS chiefs urge public to help battle winter bugs

That's the message from clinical leaders in East and North Yorkshire.

They say antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections – and they have no impact against viral infections like flu and other viruses which trigger common colds.

As winter approaches and seasonal bugs begin to circulate, the NHS in Humber and North Yorkshire is urging the public to play a vital role in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Taking antibiotics when they are not needed, means they can be less effective further down the line when they are.

While a cold virus runs its course there are ways we can speed up our recovery or make symptoms feel less severe, such as getting plenty of bed rest, drinking lots of fluids (particularly water) and speaking with your pharmacy team about over-the-counter medication such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.

Dr Nigel Wells, NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board’s (ICB) executive director for clinical and professional, 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.”

AMR happens when germs like bacteria, viruses and fungi become resistant to the drugs meant to kill them. This makes infections harder to treat, increases the spread of disease, and can lead to severe, life-threatening illnesses or even death.

Drug resistance can render antibiotics and other treatments ineffective, turning once-manageable infections into serious health threats