98-2

ARIZONA PUBLIC HEALTH ASSOCIATION
Proposed Resolution 9/98

TITLE: ABUSE OF ANTIBIOTICS

WHEREAS: Antibiotic prescriptions have increased steadily since the 1980s WHEREAS: As much as 50% of all antibiotic use is unnecessary WHEREAS: Antibiotics are effective only against bacterial infections
WHEREAS: Antibiotics are NOT effective (misused) as a treatment for viruses

WHEREAS: Antibiotic misuse (abuse) has created bacterial strains now resistant to many antibiotics

WHEREAS: Antibiotic Resistance is rising at an alarming rate

WHEREAS: The Arizona Public Health Association considers this a public health crisis

BE IT RESOLVED THAT: Antibiotics be used only to treat bacterial infections

BE IT RESOLVED THAT: When prescribed, antibiotics should be taken as prescribed (complete the course)

BE IT RESOLVED THAT: This information will be shared as widely as possible, by all Public Health Professionals, with providers, patients, and the public in general.

PASSED BY MEMBERSHIP ANNUAL MEETING 9/16/98

Pat Zurick Executive Secretary

133~1998_(1)Abuse of antibiotics (healthcare, medication)