Toby Antony By

Express News Service

KOCHI: The state health department is gearing up to face the threat posed by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Easy availability of antibiotics even without a prescription has made the use of these medicines rampant in Kerala. Experts warn such use creates bacteria that develop resistance to antibiotics, thereby making t h e m a l m o s t invincible. The department has decided to bring in regulations that can reign in the use of antibiotics. Sale without a prescription will come in for special attention “People are overdosing on antibiotics.

Currently, even pharmacists at medical shops give out antibiotics without insisting on a medical practitioner’s prescription,” said an officer. Experts will study the matter and come out with a solution. Once the team submits a report, the department will take up the issue with the government and introduce a regulation to control the sale of antibiotics. R Ramesh, Director of Health Service, said the department was looking to introduce regulatory steps. The department will also direct doctors not to prescribe antibiotics for low- int ensity diseases.