March 27, 2010
April 1, 2010Sniffle or Sneeze?
No Antibiotics Please!
Antibiotics kill bacteria, not viruses. And colds, flu and most sore throats are caused by viruses. Antibiotics don’t touch viruses — never have, never will. And it’s not really news. It’s a long-documented medical fact.
Risk of antibiotic-resistance
The problem is, taking antibiotics when they are not needed can do more harm than good. Widespread inappropriate use of antibiotics is fueling an increase in drug-resistant bacteria. And sick individuals aren’t the only people who can suffer the consequences. Families and entire communities feel the impact when disease-causing germs become resistant to antibiotics.
What to do for colds and flu
• Children and adults with viral infections recover when the illness has run its course. Colds caused by viruses may last for two weeks or longer.
• Measures that can help a person with a cold or flu feel better:
– Increase fluid intake
– Use a cool mist vaporizer or saline nasal spray to relieve congestion
– Soothe throat with ice chips, sore throat spray or lozenges (for older children and adults)
• Viral infections may sometimes lead to bacterial infections. Patients should keep their doctor informed if their illness gets worse or lasts a long time.
