Governor Laura Kelly declared November 18–24 as Use Antibiotics Wisely Week in Kansas to raise awareness about the growing threat of antibiotic resistance. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) urges both health care providers and Kansans to use antibiotics responsibly to combat this issue. This annual event, led by the CDC and supported by over 300 organizations, highlights the importance of appropriate antibiotic use and prescribing practices.

KDHE promotes a One Health approach, recognizing the interconnected health of people, animals, plants, and their environment. The goal is not to stop using antibiotics but to ensure they are used correctly and only when necessary.

Each year, over 2.8 million Americans develop antibiotic-resistant infections, resulting in more than 35,000 deaths. Kansas ranks 10th highest in antibiotic prescriptions and 11th worst in hospital antibiotic stewardship programs. Antibiotic stewardship focuses on improving how antibiotics are prescribed and used. KDHE emphasizes the need for all health care providers and individuals to support responsible antibiotic use to protect public health.

KDHE offers these tips to Kansans:

• Wash your hands. This is one of the best ways to prevent or stop the spread of infections.
• Do not request that your doctor prescribe antibiotics.
• Pet owners, try to keep your animals and pets healthy by keeping up with your pet’s vaccines, deworming and flea and tick control.
• Only take antibiotics that are prescribed for you and take the whole course as prescribed. Do not share or use leftover antibiotics. Antibiotics treat specific types of infections. Taking the wrong medicine may delay correct treatment and allow bacteria to multiply.

For more information, visit KDHE’s website.