Frontline GPs. Dr Tony Wong and Dr Con Paleologos.Photo: Mike Sea
GPs in western Sydney have moved to the front line in the battle against infections caused by antibiotic-resistant germs or superbugs.
They are working with NPS MedicineWise to remind people to follow simple steps to protect themselves against superbugs in the community.
GPs are responding to new warnings of superbugs as more people with community-acquired antibiotic-resistant infections visit medical centres and hospitals around the country.
Veteran frontline GPs Con Paleologos and Tony Wong of Alpha Medical Centre in Seven Hills, use a superbug management plan to combat antibiotic resistance and respiratory tract infections.
They encourage patients to allow their immune system fight off the virus causing respiratory tract infections, rather than prescribing antibiotics.
‘‘Using antibiotics when you don’t need to may make them less effective when you do,’’ Dr Paleologos said.
‘‘Infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria can be difficult to treat, last for a long time and spread to others.’’
Dr Wong said antibiotics should be only be used in very acute respiratory infections.
‘‘Rest, home remedies and simple pain relievers can help you to feel better while your body’s immune system fights off an infection of the ear, nose, throat, sinus or chest,’’ Dr Wong said.
‘‘The more people learn about antibiotics and take part in the fight against superbugs, the more likely we are to see a reduction in antibiotic prescribing rates and more people taking these medicines correctly,’’ Dr Paleologos said.
Learn more at: nps.org.au/antibiotics or facebook.com/NPSMedicineWise.