WASHINGTON - President Joe Biden declared "Antibiotic Awareness Week" in the U.S. beginning Thursday, an occasion meant to "celebrate the miracles of science and medicine" while also raising awareness about the dangers of misusing such prescription medication — which can lead to further spread of disease.Antibiotics are vital for the treatment of bacterial infections causing pneumonia, meningitis and sepsis.
They also help to protect against infection during chemotherapy, cesarean sections and other common surgeries, health officials say.