'Andybiotic' helps local schoolchildren

A new science resource pack which aims to promote a better understanding of infections and create an awareness about antibiotics and their use among school children has been launched today.

The Bug Investigators pack, which was launched by the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety and the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA), has been designed for use by Key Stage 2 Science and PSHE teachers in primary and post-primary schools.

The pack contains information, which deals with the problem of resistance to antibiotics and antimicrobial agents and identifies ways to minimise its development.

It makes use of the cartoon character 'Andybiotic' who invites everybody to use antibiotics in a responsible manner by explaining which micro-organisms they work on. 'Andybiotic' also gives practical advice on self-treatment for conditions like colds, and most sore throats, that antibiotics do not work on.

Speaking at the launch in CCEA Headquarters in Clarendon Dock, Senior Medical Officer at the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, Dr Lorraine Doherty said: “Sore throats are common, particularly in children, but most are viral and do not require treatment with antibiotics and can be left to run their course. We need to educate early and often, on the whole area of antibiotics."

The Bug Investigators resource pack seeks to show young people the steps that can be taken to reduce dependency on antibiotics and how unnecessary use can actually be harmful to the body.”

Carmel Gallagher of CCEA, the organisation responsible for advising Government on what should be taught in our schools, said: "A key aim of the curriculum review proposed by CCEA is to make learning relevant and enjoyable for young people. As a central part of the review, CCEA has proposed a programme of Personal Development for every child aged 4- 16 years. We are, therefore, delighted to be involved with the launch of the Bug Investigators Resource Pack, which will support this important area of the revised curriculum and also the programme for science."

Bug Investigators is particularly relevant at the moment, in the light of 'bug'-related health scares, such as the SARS virus. Targeted at the 10-12 year old age group, the pack is colourful and interactive and is expected prove popular with upper primary and lower secondary pupils and teachers, with the way in which it relates health and science issues to real life.

(MB)