PCRS Position Statement - Antibiotics and sputum

Antibiotics are crucial for managing infectious diseases and preventing complications like pneumonia or sepsis. However, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a growing global health threat, contributing to over 3 million deaths annually. While resistance can occur naturally, the misuse and overuse of antibiotics significantly accelerate this process, rendering treatments less effective or ineffective. 

Patients with resistant infections face higher mortality risks within 30 days compared to those with antibiotic-sensitive infections. This increases the spread of disease, severe illness and mortality rates. In England, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported a 12.8% rise in antibiotic-resistant infections, from 59,171 in 2018 to 66,730 in 2023. Deaths from severe antibiotic-resistant infections also rose by 27.9% between 2019 and 2022. Addressing AMR requires urgent efforts to promote responsible antibiotic use and develop effective strategies to combat resistance.

In this position statement we outline the background, key issues and PCRS position on antibiotics and sputum. As part of this, the Primary Care Respiratory Society (PCRS) addresses the responsibilities of all healthcare professionals, policy makers and commissioners in dealing with this issue and the research, guidance and public awareness needed to support that. It also outlines specific points on respiratory infection and sputum testing and diagnosis.