Study highlights misperceptions on the role of antibiotics in
managing common childhood illness.
Over a third (36%) of surveyed parents incorrectly assume
children always need antibiotics for ear infections, according to
new research from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
Ear infections are very common, particularly in children, and
often get better on their own within 3 days although sometimes
symptoms can last up to a week. Research shows that as few as 1
in 5 children are likely to require antibiotics to treat an ear
infection.
The UKHSA-led
study, published in the British Journal of General Practice,
surveyed over 500 parents across England whose children had
experienced ear infection symptoms in the previous year. It
was carried out as part of ongoing UKHSA work to identify
opportunities to help reduce avoidable antibiotic use.
The survey found that most parents (74%) who consult a healthcare
professional do so within 1 to 2 days of their child's symptoms
appearing.
Only around half (49%) of parents thought that most childhood ear
infections can get better without antibiotics. A quarter (27%)
were unsure.
The study also revealed gaps between what parents expected from
consultations and what they received. Significantly more parents
expected advice on whether their child needed antibiotics (43%)
than actually received it (28%). Of those who consulted a
healthcare professional, just over half (56%) reported their
child was prescribed antibiotics.
Catherine Hayes, UKHSA study lead, said:
Ear infections are very common and can cause real distress to
both children and families, but antibiotics are often not
necessary. Our survey highlights that more can be done to support
parents to understand when an ear infection is serious and what
they can do. UKHSA's work will aim to address this by developing
resources to support health professionals and patients during
consultations.
While antibiotics are sometimes necessary for children with ear
infections, unnecessary antibiotic use can cause side effects in
children and contribute to antimicrobial resistance. If your
child is prescribed antibiotics, it's important to follow the
advice of your GP, nurse or pharmacist.
Dr Haroon Ahmed, GP and Clinical Reader in Epidemiology at
Cardiff University, said:
Advice on what to do if you think your child has an ear infection
is available on the NHS website. If
prescribed antibiotics, it's important to ensure they are taken
exactly as directed by your GP, nurse or pharmacist.
The research further highlighted the significant impact ear
infections have on family life. Over two-fifths (42%) of parents
had to take time off work, whilst nearly two-thirds (62%) said
their child missed school or nursery. Work pressures appeared to
influence consulting behaviour, with parents who missed work
nearly 5 times more likely to seek medical help.
UKHSA data published
in November showed antibiotic-resistant infections equate to
nearly 400 new cases per week, underlining the importance of
using antibiotics only when needed.
