Antibiotics do not fight cold, flu viruses

It starts with a sniffle or a sneeze. Perhaps a scratchy throat or a sinus headache. You or someone you know gets a cold.

Are you aware that colds, flu, most sore throats, and acute bronchitis are caused by viruses?

Did you know that antibiotics do not help fight viruses?

It's true. Plus, taking antibiotics when you have a virus may do more harm than good.

When adults and children are given antibiotics incorrectly to treat viral infections, such as colds and flu, those patients aren't getting the best care for their condition.

A course of antibiotics won't fight the virus, make the patient feel better, yield a quicker recovery, or keep others from getting sick. Dangers of

Antibiotic Resistance

Antibiotic resistance is one of the world's most pressing public health problems.

Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria change in some way that reduces or eliminates the effectiveness of agents designed to cure or prevent infections.

Widespread inappropriate use of antibiotics is fueling an increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria. So the next time you really need an antibiotic for a bacterial infection, it may not work.

Antibiotics Are Not

for Colds and Flu

Taking antibiotics for viral infections - such as a cold, cough, the flu, and acute bronchitis:

Will not cure the infection. Will not keep other individuals from catching the illness. Will not help a person feel better.

May cause an unnecessary harmful side effect.

What Not To Do

Do not demand antibiotics when a healthcare provider says they are not needed.

Do not take an antibiotic for a viral infection like a cold, a cough, or the flu.

When you are prescribed an antibiotic:

Do not skip doses. Do not save any antibiotics for the next time you get sick.

Do not take antibiotics prescribed for someone else.

Taking the wrong medicine may delay correct treatment and allow bacteria to multiply.

What To Do

Prevent the spread of infections through frequent hand washing.

When you are prescribed an antibiotic:

Take it exactly as the healthcare provider tells you. Talk with your healthcare provider about antibiotic resistance.