ADVISORY/Experts Available To Discuss Strategy To Reduce Use of Antibiotics.

Business Editors

ADVISORY...

--(BUSINESS WIRE)

TOPIC: A 1995 study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention claimed more than 40% of outpatient prescriptions for antibiotics were given for viral infections, according to an article by The Associated Press. Health officials have since strongly suggested that physicians refrain from prescribing antibiotics for viral infections, as they are useless in treating them. Now, the government will target parents in a $1.6 million ad campaign, which will advise parents not to pressure doctors into prescribing antibiotics for conditions such as the common cold. Excessive use of antibiotics results in germs that become resistant to standard medicines, including penicillin.

EXPERTS: ExpertSource can offer several highly qualified experts to comment on this story:

Dr. Roger Loria, of the Virginia Commonwealth University, can discuss issues pertaining to microbiology and immunology. 804-828-9717 [e-mail]

Dr. Marsha Anderson, of The Children's Hospital, can share her expertise concerning infectious diseases and pediatrics. 303-861-8888

Dr. Thomas Hooton, of the University of Washington, is an expert on topics such as antibiotic usage and resistance and infectious diseases. 206-731-5146

ExpertSource cannot guarantee the immediate availability of these experts or their familiarity with this specific issue.

ExpertSource provides academic and industry experts to the media at no charge. Journalists are encouraged to submit queries to ExpertSource when seeking experts on specific subjects. An online registration form is available at http://www.businesswire.com/.