Deaths from Antibiotic-Resistant Infections Surge 17% in England
London,England - Deaths linked to drug-resistant infections in England rose by 17% in 2024,according to new data released by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The increase underscores growing concerns about antibiotic resistance, often referred to as “superbugs.”
While overall antibiotic use within the National Health Service (NHS) in England has fallen by 7% over the past five years, the rise in deaths highlights the continued threat posed by infections that are becoming increasingly difficult to treat.
“It’s positive that we’ve seen antibiotic use fall in England within the NHS but we need to go further, faster,” said UKHSA’s Dr. Isobel Hopkins. “Please remember to only take antibiotics if you have been told to do so by a healthcare professional. Do not save some for later or share them with friends and family. If you have leftover antibiotics, please bring them to a pharmacy for appropriate disposal.”
The UKHSA data also provides early insights into the impact of the Pharmacy First scheme, launched to alleviate pressure on general practitioners (GPs).The scheme enables pharmacies to treat seven common conditions – earache, sinusitis, sore throat, infected insect bites, and shingles – and found that antibiotics were supplied in 45% to 85% of consultations, depending on the condition.
The UKHSA report cautioned that the increase in antibiotic supply through Pharmacy First should be “interpreted with caution and in the context of broader changes in how patients access care,” noting the service adheres to established National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) prescribing guidance.
Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria evolve to survive exposure to drugs designed to kill them.Overuse and misuse of antibiotics are major drivers of this process, leading to infections that are harder, and sometimes impossible, to treat. This can result in longer hospital stays,higher medical costs,and increased mortality.
