Public knowledge, attitudes and behaviours on antibiotics and antimicrobial resistance

What is it about?

This study surveyed over 800 adults across the island of Ireland to compare what people in Northern Ireland (NI) and the Republic of Ireland (IRL) know, believe, and do in relation to antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Using questions adapted from a World Health Organization public awareness survey, researchers measured knowledge of appropriate antibiotic use, awareness of AMR-related terms, reported antibiotic behaviours, and beliefs about personal responsibility. Key findings include widespread misconceptions (nearly 38% of respondents in both countries wrongly believed antibiotics treat colds and flu), very low awareness of specific terms such as ESKAPE pathogens (11%) and AMR itself (21.5%), and high rates of recent antibiotic use (over 57% in the past year). Some differences emerged between jurisdictions, with NI respondents showing slightly higher knowledge scores and stronger agreement with appropriate prescribing practices, and IRL respondents more likely to report feeling unable to personally influence AMR

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Why is it important?

AMR is projected to cause 10 million deaths annually worldwide by 2050, making public knowledge and behaviour critical levers for prevention. Northern Ireland has the highest antibiotic consumption rate in the UK, nearly double that of England, and Ireland's consumption is high relative to EU peers. This is the first study to directly compare AMR-related public cognitions and behaviours across both jurisdictions on the island of Ireland, a region with an open border and frequent cross-border movement that creates real potential for resistant bacteria to spread. The findings make a strong evidence-based case for a coordinated, all-island public health response to antimicrobial stewardship, and provide the behavioural data needed to design targeted AMR awareness campaigns in both countries.