‘Educate them early’—antimicrobial stewardship in schools using e-Bug: a brief review of online resources ‘KS2: Antibiotics’ and ‘KS3: antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance’

Abstract

Background and objectives Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing threat to public health globally. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) national action plan recommends a focus on public engagement and education about the risk of exposure to antimicrobials. The e-Bug programme, operated by UKHSA, provides freely available, evidence-based resources that empower teachers and pupils to learn about bacterial illnesses and safe antibiotic use. To review online education resources (e-Bug) for AMR as a resource for teaching primary-aged pupils about the topic. To establish a pilot programme of antimicrobial education for school children, taught by medical and postgraduate students from the University of Aberdeen, using the e-Bug online resource. Methods A 1 h in-person training session was provided, led by members of the antibiotic management team (AMT), using e-Bug resources for lesson plans. Schools from within the local catchment area of the highest prescribing GP practices were targeted. Funding of £1000 was received from the University of Aberdeen Development Trust Student Fund. Results Seventeen volunteers were trained, and 12 went on to complete visits. Five primary schools and one secondary school were visited. Twelve classes across the schools were taught, reaching approximately 300 pupils. Lesson plans are reviewed in detail in this article. Volunteers enjoyed the sessions and found them useful and rewarding. School teachers found the lessons informative and enjoyable for the pupils, and volunteers would be welcomed again. Conclusions Using the e-Bug resource is relatively easy, straightforward and enjoyable for both teachers and pupils. Community outreach led by NHS antimicrobial teams is feasible, and incorporating university students to provide the teaching is a success.