A study by the IMAGINE project identified that around 50% of antibiotic prescriptions in European care homes to treat urinary tract infections are unnecessary. This disproportionate use of antibiotics raises concerns because its contribution to the development of antimicrobial resistance.
The project proposes to implement best practices and criteria for the administration of these medications. According to IMAGINE, between 30 and 80% of current prescriptions could be avoided through targeted interventions. To achieve this, a multidimensional approach is designed in collaboration with healthcare staff in retirement homes, with the aim of optimizing prescribing patterns and reducing the negative impact of misused antibiotics.
IMAGINE highlights that adapting these strategies to complex contexts such as care homes will not only help curb resistance, but also reduce harmful effects on a particularly vulnerable population. Additionally, it will reduce pharmaceutical costs and improve the quality of life of residents.
The project has planned a second study in 2025 to assess the impact of these measures compared to initial data. This analysis is currently being developed in 110 residences located in countries such as Spain, Greece, Hungary and Denmarkand the results are part of the activities of the European Day of Awareness on the Prudent Use of Antibiotics.
As part of its efforts, IMAGINE launched an educational campaign aimed at professionals and the general public, with materials that address myths about antimicrobial resistance, prevention strategies and diagnosis of urinary infections. It also emphasizes basic hygiene measures, such as hand washing and anogenital hygiene, which are essential to reduce infections in this environment.
The project highlights the severity of antimicrobial resistance, which currently causes 35,000 deaths per year in Europe and could cause 10 million more. deaths worldwide by 2050 if urgent measures are not taken. IMAGINE, funded by the European EU4Health programme, aims to be a key step in reversing this trend in one of the most affected environments: care homes.
