THE over-use of antibiotics has contributed to the build-up of drug-resistant infections such as MRSA in hospitals, a Mirfield chemist claims.
And the problem is also starting to appear in the community, with drug-resistant infections on the increase.
Mrs Gill Hawksworth, of the Old Bank Chemist, and a representative of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, said: "With winter fast approaching, the public will be looking for effective treatments for a variety of ailments including colds and flu.
"Many people mistakenly believe that antibiotics can treat flu viruses and colds when they cannot.
"Your local pharmacist is a highly trained expert source of advice and help on all medicines and general health care issues.
"A visit to the local pharmacy can often save a trip to the doctor.
"Another bonus is that there is no need to book an appointment."
A new leaflet, Ask About Antibiotics, is published by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain and launched this week.
It aims to help the public understand more about antibiotics.
* It is often unclear whether probiotic yoghurt drinks offer genuine benefits in the treatment of gastro-intestinal disorders, says the Drug and Therapeutics Bulletin.
The Bulletin, produced by Which?, points out that more studies are needed to define which specific strains and doses of probiotics are most effective.
People often take probiotics to counteract the side-effects of antibiotics.
The campaign makes the following points:
* Antibotics are medicines used to treat or prevent bacterial infections such as chest infections or septic cuts.
* They will not work against illnesses or infections caused by viruses such as the common cold or flu.
* Different types of antibiotics work for different types of bacterial infections.
* Users should always follow the instructions on the label.
* Users should always complete the course unless told otherwise by their GP or pharmacist
* Antibiotics should never be shared with other people.
