People are being urged to hand in their unused antibiotics following concerns that common infections could soon have the power to kill.

The over-use and misuse of antibiotics means bacterial infections that were once easily cured are becoming harder to treat.

Without urgent action, common ailments and minor injuries which have been treatable for decades could once again kill.

As part of Antibiotics Awareness Week (12-18 November) local NHS leaders across Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) are urging families to hand over unused antibiotics as part of an antibiotic amnesty.

Dr Shruti Patel, the CCG’s clinical lead for prescribing said: “Antibiotics are a precious resource, the effectiveness of which is under threat from increasing bacterial resistance, creating one of the most significant threats to patient safety in Europe.

“Without effective antibiotics many routine treatments will become increasingly dangerous. Setting broken bones, basic operations, and chemotherapy all rely on access to antibiotics that work.

“By handing in unused or out of date antibiotics we can all help to stop them being used inappropriately and slow down the development of antibiotic resistance.”

Dr Jonathan Hayes, the CCG's clinical chair, said: “Lots of people attend GP surgeries wanting to receive prescriptions for infections which their bodies are good at fighting off on their own, like coughs, colds, sore throats and flu.

“Initially you should try treating and controlling the symptoms for a few days by getting lots of rest, eating well and drinking plenty of fluids. Community pharmacists are well placed to help provide advice on over the counter medicines that can also help treat symptoms.”

You can hand in unused or out of date antibiotics at any community pharmacy or hospital in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire as part of the amnesty.