Call to cut use of antibiotics

PATIENTS in the Lothians are being urged to resist the temptation to use antibiotics.

The Scottish Government said reducing the rates would help the fight against superbugs.

Latest statistics show the use of antibiotics in the area is on the slide, and Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon said: "Reducing the misery caused by C.diff has been a priority for me and huge efforts have been made to reduce infections in our hospitals.

"Prudent prescribing is one area which has been addressed and there is a clear link between the downward trend in antibiotic prescribing and the reduction in C.diff infections."