Whereas, Antibiotic overuse in the treatment of bacterial and viral infections has led to an increase in the incidence of drug-resistant bacteria, compromising the ability of the health care industry to respond effectively to the needs of patients with antibiotic-resistant infections; and,

Whereas, Infections with resistant bacteria represent a significant threat to the health of individuals whom they infect and increase the cost and complexity of treating infections, which previously were easily treated; and,

Whereas, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Michigan Department of Community Health, and the Michigan Antibiotic Reduction Coalition are devoting resources to enhance public awareness regarding the appropriate use of antibiotics; and,

Whereas, The Michigan Antibiotic Resistance Reduction Coalition, in partnership with physician organizations, consumer groups, health plans, state and local public health organizations, and pharmaceutical companies, sole purpose is to educate health professionals and consumers about the appropriate use of antibiotics; and,

Whereas, Through professional and public education endeavors, these collaborative efforts seek to increase awareness about the overuse and misuse of antibiotics and ways to prevent the increase and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria;

Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim the week of October 5, 2009, Get Smart About Antibiotics Week in Michigan. I encourage all residents of the state of Michigan to take the necessary steps to prevent infections through careful hand-washing and immunizations to reduce the development and spread of antibiotic-resistant illness among patients.