Day 4 ; World Antibiotics Awareness Week.

Save your life and Save the World: Handle Antibiotics with care

“Antibiotics do not fight infections caused by viruses like colds, flu, most sore throats, bronchitis, and many sinus and ear infections. Instead, symptom relief might be the best treatment option for viral infections”.  CDC

One must know Get when antibiotics are required to treat bacterial infections. Appropriate use of antibiotics gives the for the good of your health, your family's health, and the health of the people around you.

According to CDC (2015) The use of  antibiotics for viral infections, such as colds, flu, most sore throats, bronchitis, and many sinus or ear infections:

·         Will not cure the infection

·         Will not keep other people from getting sick

·         Will not help you or your child feel better

·         May cause unnecessary and harmful side effects

·         May contribute to antibiotic resistance, which is when bacteria are able to resist the effects of an antibiotic and continue to cause harm

Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter products may be your or your child's best treatment option against viral infections.

Remember–there are potential risks when taking any prescription drug. Unneeded antibiotics may lead to harmful side effects and future antibiotic-resistant infections.

What Not to Do

·         Do not demand antibiotics when your healthcare professional says they are not needed.

·         Do not take an antibiotic for a viral infection.

·         Do not take antibiotics prescribed for someone else. The antibiotic may not be right for your illness. Taking the wrong medicine may delay correct treatment and allow bacteria to grow.

If your healthcare professional prescribes an antibiotic for a bacterial infection:

·         Do not skip doses.

·         Do not stop taking the antibiotics early unless your healthcare professional tells you to do so.

·         Do not save any of the antibiotics for the next time you or your child gets sick

Reference:

CDC (2015) Antibiotics Aren't Always the Answer [Online]. Available from:

http://www.cdc.gov/features/getsmart/ [Accessed 19,2015].