Understanding Microbes and Staying Healthy: A Fun Afternoon with Stornoway Primary’s P7s

This November, Emer Friel, Antimicrobial Pharmacist, had the pleasure of spending time with the Primary 7 pupils at Stornoway Primary School as part of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW).

WAAW takes place from November 18 – 24 each year and is led globally by the World Health Organization (WHO). It aims to increase awareness of global antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and to encourage best practice among the public, health workers and policy makers to avoid the further emergence and spread of drug-resistant infections.

Emer said: “As the Antimicrobial Pharmacist at Western Isles Hospital, part of my role is providing education to colleagues, so it was a new experience to try and inspire curiosity and share knowledge with a lively classrooms of young learners.”

Emer kicked off the session by explaining what antimicrobials are. The pupils were quick to shout out answers like “antibiotics” and “bleach,” and they talked about how these substances stop or inhibit microorganisms from growing. From brass doorknobs to antiseptic creams, the children were fascinated to learn that even metals like copper and silver have antimicrobial properties!

Next, they went on to discuss the world of microbes – tiny living organisms that have been around for billions of years. They covered bacteria, viruses and fungi. The pupils were amazed to discover that microbes are everywhere: on our skin, in our gut, and that we need them to make some of our favourite foods like cheese, chocolate and pizza. They discussed the difference between helpful microbes and harmful ones, and why good hygiene matters.

Other topics included in the discussion were:

• Hand hygiene – why washing with soap is better than just using sanitiser.
• Respiratory hygiene – how to “catch it, bin it, kill it” when sneezing or coughing.
• Food hygiene – how handling, preparation, storing and cooking all effect food safety.
• Animal care – how to enjoy pets and animals safely.

And how to protect themselves covering:

• Our immune systems – how to look after our bodies.
• Vaccinations – protecting ourselves and the people we care about.
• Antibiotics – using them appropriately and only when we need them.

The pupils had lots of interesting questions and were hopefully reassured that most microbes do us no harm and indeed we need them to survive and thrive.  Emer talked about why antibiotics don’t work on viruses so there's no point in having them for most common colds and coughs. Also, why taking them as prescribed by your Doctor is so important to prevent antimicrobial resistance—a topic that’s vital for the future of healthcare.

Emer added: “This was an amazing opportunity to connect with the next generation and spark their interest in science and health. Their enthusiasm was infectious (in the best way!), and I really enjoyed their curiosity and energy. Sharing these messages early helps build lifelong habits that protect not only individual health but entire communities.”

“I thoroughly enjoyed my afternoon with the P7s. Their eagerness to learn and their thoughtful questions reminded me why education is such a powerful tool in the fight against antimicrobial resistance. If even one pupil goes home and reminds their family to wash their hands properly or not to misuse antibiotics, then we’ve made a real difference. Hopefully the message about closing toilet lids before flushing will have hit home too coming into Norovirus season!”

“A special shout out to the P7 Immunisation Champions who are doing a great job encouraging their peers to get vaccinated.”