Keep Antibiotics in Play

In June 2026, ahead of a summer of sport, the Fleming Initiative, with funding and support from GSK, teams up with top British athletes to raise awareness of antibiotic resistance and what we can all do to help keep antibiotics in play.

 

Olympic and Commonwealth swimmer Becky Adlington OBE, former England rugby international Matt Dawson MBE, and Paralympic and Commonwealth swimmer Alice Tai OBE all have their own very personal experiences involving the power of antibiotics. By sharing these stories, they aim to inspire audiences to appreciate the importance of these vital medicines and the urgent actions needed to protect their effectiveness. 

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​This sport-packed season sees the World Cup, then Wimbledon, followed by the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, close to the birthplace of Sir Alexander Fleming, who discovered the first antibiotic, penicillin. Champions of pitch and pool Becky, Matt and Alice are using the power of sport to inspire the public to help keep antibiotics in play.

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​What is antibiotic resistance?

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When we need to treat bacterial infections, antibiotics are essential. But their effectiveness is under threat as bacteria develop resistance due to overuse and misuse.

 

These resistant bacteria, often referred to as “superbugs”, are making common infections harder to treat and increasing the risks associated with routine procedures, including surgery and cancer treatment. Antibiotic resistance already causes over 1 million deaths each year and without urgent action, almost 40 million lives could be lost between 2025 and 2050.​​​​​​​

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How you can help

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You can help by taking simple steps to help preserve these vital medicines and encouraging others to do the same.

 

Such actions include:

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• Using antibiotics only when needed and prescribed

• Taking them exactly as directed

• Never saving or sharing antibiotics

• Disposing of antibiotics safely through pharmacies

• Reducing infection risk through good hygiene and vaccination

• Trusting professional advice – don’t push for antibiotics if they’re not required

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Last updated: June 2026