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Remember - antibiotics don’t kill viruses

Some people are surprised that when they have an infection their doctor does not prescribe an antibiotic

Many of the common infections of the nose, throat, ears and chest are due to viruses. The body’s immune system is good at fighting off many types of virus infection in children and adults who are usually healthy. An antibiotic is not needed if a virus is causing an infection. This is because of the following

* Antibiotics do not kill viruses.

* Antibiotics only kill bacteria.

* Antibiotics may cause side-effects such as diarrhoea, rashes, feeling sick etc. These may develop as well as symptoms of the virus infection.

* Antibiotics do not speed up recovery from most nose, throat, ear and chest infections.

Why were antibiotics given in the past?

In the past, overuse of antibiotics when they may not have been necessary has led to some bacteria becoming resistant to them. This means that they might not be as effective when they are really needed. Some doctors say that a lot of patients still expect a prescription for antibiotics, even though we now know that they are unlikely to help in most cases.

How can I get better quickly, if antibiotics are not the answer?

Antibiotics do not kill viruses and there are no specific treatments to kill viral infections. Although you may feel unwell for several days or more whilst the body if fighting off a viral infection there are treatments to ease the symptoms. These include the following:

* Take paracetamol to ease any aches, pains and headaches. Paracetamol liquid is best for children. Ask your pharmacist for advice.

* Have lots to drink to prevent any mild dehydration. This may develop if there is a fever and can make headaches and tiredness much worse.

* If you have a fever it is important to keep cool. This is particularly important in young children. Do not wrap them up but keep clothing and bedclothes to a minimum and give paracetamol.

* Other advice may be given for specific symptoms, for example, coughs and blocked noses. A pharmacist will be able to give you advice on appropriate treatments.

What if my symptoms change?

Most viral infections clear without complications. If the illness appears to worsen after a few days or if you are worried about new symptoms seek your doctors’ advice.

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