• During COVID-19, WHO observed widespread excessive use of antibiotics, with 75% of patients receiving them, even though only 8% needed them.

• The highest usage occurs among severe or critical COVID-19 cases, notably in Africa. 

• However, in mild or moderate cases, usage varies significantly by region.

• Overall, antibiotic use did not improve clinical outcomes for patients with COVID-19. 

• But rather, it might have created harm for people without bacterial infection, compared to those not receiving antibiotics.

• The AWaRe (Access, Watch, Reserve) classification system reveals concerning trends, with 'Watch' antibiotics, posing higher resistance risks, frequently prescribed globally.

• WHO plans to issue recommendations on COVID-19 antibiotic use based on evidence synthesis from the WHO Global Clinical Platform to address antimicrobial resistance.

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