Government warns over antibiotic misuse

A lack of awareness about the usage and potential side effects of antibiotics in China is putting people's health at risk, the country's drug watchdog warned on Saturday.

According to a new study by the State Food and Drug Administration, Chinese people continue to self-medicate using powerful drugs to treat minor ailments, a habit that could lead to the development of stronger, resistant strains of illnesses.

A survey of 8,000 people found that roughly 23 percent will take antibiotics as soon as they suspect they have the common cold, while 9 percent will do the same when they have diarrhea.