![]() ![]() ![]() |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Health ![]() 'No quick fix' for 'flu ![]() Patients should treat the symptoms of 'flu ![]()
The research - based on interviews with 2,054 adults and commissioned by the Consumer Health Information Centre - indicates that the public has yet to take on board advice that antibiotics are useless for viral infections.
Despite the government warning, more than half of those who wanted antibiotics said they believed the drugs would help them recover faster. Social differences People in social group A/B were more likely to ask for antibiotics when they have a bad cold than those in groups C2 and D/E. The highest demand for antibiotics is from people in Greater London. The survey suggested that many younger people were impatient for a cure because they felt under pressure to return to work as quickly as possible.
"The only way to deal with these viruses is to relieve the symptoms with a remedy from the pharmacy and let the virus run its course." The CHIC survey also found that people do not lack the confidence to self-medicate, but they need reassurance. A British Medical Association spokeswoman said: "This shows there is still a big hill to climb, and explains the pressure GPs are under.
The CHIC is starting a campaign to steer consumers towards the pharmacy to gain on-the-spot expert advice. The campaign will include a local call-rate helpline service staffed by trained health care professionals who can advise on symptoms and appropriate treatment. Its number is 0845 6061611. ![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() Health Contents ![]() ![]() ![]()
![]() ![]() ![]()
![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() |