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Communication is the key Antibiotic resistance seems to be all over the news lately – from drug resistant tuberculosis to methicillin-resistant Staph. aureus, also known as MRSA. Antibiotic resistance is not new and unfortunately, it is not limited to a couple high-profile, rare occurrences. Rather, a great majority, if not all, bacteria that make us sick have developed ways to resist the antibiotics we have to fight them. We don’t have to sit back and watch our important medicines fail. Rather, we all can do something about this serious health threat. First, we can no longer afford to take antibiotics for granted. These amazing drugs are designed to treat bacterial infections, some of which can be deadly without treatment. Since antibiotics are so important we must appreciate, and use correctly, the antibiotics we have. Second, knowledge is essential. Since taking antibiotics unnecessarily encourages resistant germs to multiply, it is essential to know when antibiotics work and how to use them wisely. Too often we have the notion that when ill an antibiotic will improve our regardless of the cause. However, antibiotics only cure bacterial infections and do not work for viral infections. The illnesses we get this time of year – coughs, colds and flu – are usually viral. Antibiotics simply will not help. Arm yourself with knowledge. Information about when antibiotics work and antibiotic resistance can be found at www.GetSmartColorado.com or from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov/drugresistance. Third, communication is key. It is always important to see your health care provider if concerned about an illness. But it is equally important to ask questions. Is an antibiotic needed? What else can I do to feel better? When can I expect to feel better? Sometimes we need antibiotic treatment. Sometimes other medicines are best. Communicate with your health care provider to find the right medicine to treat your illness. Antibiotics are not always the answer. Call to action. Antibiotic resistance is a serious concern that affects everyone. The good news is awareness is growing. Do not be a bystander, though. Get involved, talk with your health care providers and learn what you can do to prevent antibiotic resistant infections and how to prevent getting sick in the first place. Talk with your friends and family. Educate others about when antibiotics work. It is each of our responsibility to keep antibiotics working.