Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1508402
Health Matters: Providence St. Jude Medical Center | 7 Cold and flu season means missed school, missed work, and at least one trip to the doctor to ask for an antibiotic. While effective only against cer tain bacteria, half of all antibiotic prescriptions are written for illnesses caused by viruses, such as colds, flu, and sinus infections. The misuse of antibiotics to treat conditions they can't possibly cure is a major reason for the alarming rise in "superbugs," bacteria that have developed immunity to most antibiotics. "Antibiotics are losing their effectiveness at a rate that is alarming and irreversible," says Claudia Skinner, DNP, RN, CIC, an expert in infection prevention at St. Jude Medical Center, who explains that the overuse of antibiotics has allowed bacteria to develop genetic protection. "Once bacteria has gained immunity from antibiotics, it can pass along this resistance to other bacteria, much like students passing notes." Experts worr y that if the current trend continues, the medicine cabinet may be empty when it 's needed most. " The more often you take antibiotics, the more likely you will develop antibiotic- resistant bacteria," Claudia says, explaining that while drug- sensitive and beneficial bacteria are both killed by the antibiotic, resistant germs are left to grow, multiply, and pass on their immunity. "Patients want to leave a doctor 's appointment with a solution, and for many that means a prescription," explains Claudia. "But the overuse of these wonder drugs is proving to be deadly." The Problem of Antibiotic Overuse and Resistance Free online class, Wednesday, October 25, 6–7 p.m. Please join Claudia Skinner, DNP, NP, Epidemiology, and infection control manager, and Mai-Chi Hong, PharmD, Antimicrobial Stewardship Pharmacist, to learn how to better protect your family 's health from a growing number of antibiotic- resistant superbugs. They will discuss which bacteria have grown resistant and why, as well as common misperceptions about what illnesses should—and should not—be treated with antibiotics. To register, call 844-925-0944 or go to providence.org/ stjudeevents. TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING The growing danger of antibiotic-resistant bacteria During open enrollment, choose the health plan that covers the best doctors for you. Now is your time to be sure the power of the most comprehensive health care network is part of your health plan. Providence's in-person, virtual, urgent, and ExpressCare options help you navigate complex health conditions in a way that works best for you. Choose world-class, compassionate health care. Choose a health plan that includes Providence. Health care is personal. ChooseProvidence.org