Playing Doctors Recent surveys reveal that 32 percent of the Canary Islands’ population buy antibiotics over the counter without a doctor’s prescription and that Spain tops the list of countries where medicines are not used properly.

Tenerife Arona Gastronomy to sell Costa del Silencio - Restaurant Costa del Silencio – Restaurant, 84 m2, inside 8 tables, 50 m2 terrace with 11 tables, 2 toilets, 1 industrial ... more details Canary Islands - 27.10.2004 - This bad habit has boosted the resistance of certain bacteria, particularly in children under six years old, forcing doctors to prescribe stronger antibiotics which should be used for more serious infections. Sensible Use of Medicine is the slogan for a campaign launched by the regional health department to stop the public selfprescribing, and to strengthen the position of doctors and chemists. According to the survey over 50 percent of children under six that visit a doctor due to an infection have already been given an antibiotic by their parents, either because it was prescribed on a previous occasion, or a member of their family or friend has used it. Frequently the infections are of a viral origin and therefore should not be treated with antibiotics. The survey also reveals that 32 percent of the Spanish population take the full course of medication while 58 per cent stop taking the medicine once they feel better.

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