Antibiotics, children and ‘the gut microbiome’

We know that antibiotics can be life-saving when fighting serious infections, but did you know that around 40% of children are given antibiotics for chest infections and coughs, even though they might not need them? That adds up to about 2 million prescriptions every year, costing the NHS around £30 million.

It’s about much more than the money. When everyday illnesses like coughs are inappropriately treated with antibiotics, it can make families think that they always need antibiotics to treat common illnesses. This can lead to more trips to the doctor in the future when it’s not necessary.  Many infections are viral, so don’t respond to antibiotics, or they’re self-limiting and will get better themselves anyway.

Inappropriate and overuse of antibiotics also leads to antibiotic resistance in bacteria, and anyone taking antibiotics may get side effects such as rashes and diarrhoea. However, new and emerging evidence shows that antibiotic use in children can significantly impact their gut microbiome, potentially leading to long-term health consequences.  The NHS Frimley Medicines Optimisation team is working with practices across the area to highlight this and support general practices to reduce the reliance on prescribing antibiotics for upper respiratory tract infections, when it is safe to do so.  Options include a no-antibiotic with safety netting advice and patient information Patient Information Leaflet (PIL), or a backup antibiotic approach.  

So how can you help?

• Talk to those in your life about when antibiotics are helpful and when they’re not.
• Support your local GP practice by promoting responsible antibiotic use with friends and family

Did you know?

• Your gut microbiome is a tiny world inside your stomach made up of billions of friendly microorganisms (like bacteria) that help keep you healthy.
• There are more bacteria in your gut than there are people on Earth!
• Your gut microbiome is unique to you, just like your fingerprints.

How to keep your gut friends happy 😊

• Don’t use antibiotics for a cough or a cold.
• Eat fruit and vegetables of different colours and foods that are good for your gut.
• Drink water: staying hydrated is important for your gut friends.
• Play and move exercise keeps your body and gut happy!
• Wash your hands for 20 seconds before eating and after going to the loo.

Signs your gut friends need help: Tummy aches or gas, feeling tired or moody, not feeling hungry or having trouble going for a poo.

Why are gut friends important?

• Digestion: They help you digest food and turn it into energy!
• Defenders: They protect you from bad germs that can make you sick.
• Mood Boosters: Believe it or not, your gut can help you feel happy!

Frimley Healthier Together website is a great source of information for parents and carers on common childhood illnesses.