Antibiotics are one of the most frequently prescribed medicines; therefore antimicrobial resistance is on a steep rise posing a threat for human health. This has led to several antibiotic stewardship programmes, but these are mainly aimed at hospitalised patients. Patients with allergic diseases, such as asthma and eczema, are at increased risk for infections and subsequent antibiotic use, both in the outpatient- and inpatient clinic. There is however controversy whether antibiotics will do benefit (or even harm) in patients with acute allergic disease exacerbations. Moreover, antibiotic use at a very young age is associated with the development of allergic diseases. Within this EAACI task force, consisting of diverse clinicians and basic scientists, we aim to summarize all current knowledge of the effects of antibiotics on the development and treatment of allergic diseases (asthma, eczema). With this knowledge, we will be able to write position papers and guidelines to promote rational antibiotic use. We will also identify gaps of knowledge with respect to antibiotic stewardship in allergic diseases to direct new research areas.

WG Infections (Basic & Clinical Immunology Section)

Chair: Gerdien Tramper
Secretary: Cristina Boccabella