Antibiotics save lives, but they aren’t always the answer. Lower temperatures, dry air, and indoor gatherings can increase your risk of getting sick. Here are some thoughts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for getting the best treatment when you are sick, using antibiotics correctly, and avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use.
- Antibiotics are used to treat certain bacterial infections such as Strep Throat or a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). However, some bacterial infections may get better on their own, including sinus and ear infections.
- Antibiotics cannot work on viruses such as colds, most sore throats, flu, COVID-19, and some chest colds (bronchitis); and they will not make a person feel better from a virus.
- Thick, yellow, or green mucous does not always mean antibiotics are necessary.
- You and your doctor may choose to use Shared Decision-Making and Monitored Watchful Waiting to hold off with antibiotics to see if the illness gets better on its own.
If the best treatment is antibiotics, follow these guidelines from the CDC for safe use:
- Take them exactly as they are prescribed. Don’t save them for later and don’t stop early.
- Never share them with another person and don’t take antibiotics prescribed for someone else.
- Depending on severity, seek medical help or contact your doctor if you develop a side effect such as:
- Rash
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Yeast infection
- Serious allergic reaction such as trouble breathing
Stay healthy this fall and winter by washing your hands, avoiding sick contacts, getting recommended vaccines, appropriate masking, and avoiding touching your face when in public. If you do get sick, talk with your doctor about the best treatment choice. Remember, it might not be antibiotics! #BeAntibioticsAware
U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week is November 18-24, 2024.
For more information, go to https://www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use