Antibiotic use in Greece remains high, hampering the fight against infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria, warns a new study by Kapa Research, commissioned by the Athens Medical Association.

Despite stricter prescribing rules, 75% of Greeks have taken antibiotics in the past year, with 25% taking them without first consulting a doctor.

Although 71% are aware of the risks of misuse, almost half admit they would use antibiotics for a common cold. About 22% keep antibiotics at home “for emergencies,” down from 36% in 2013.

Prof. Eleni Jamarellou, a specialist in internal medicine, pointed out that excessive prescribing during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased use in adults, even though bacterial infections were found in only 8% of cases.

While 75% of antibiotics are prescribed by doctors, 3% are purchased without a prescription—a significant decrease from 16% in 2013, according to Kathimerini.

Giamarellou stressed the need for mandatory and regular training for doctors on infections and urged patients not to use antibiotics they have at home. She warned that if no action is taken, resistant infections could claim over 200 million lives worldwide by 2050. | BGNES