Colds and cough season is just around the corner. Here's what you need to know. Using antibiotics for colds, mild coughs and even green snotty noses can actually be harmful to your child's health!
Why? Antibiotics are not designed to treat all infections. Colds and most coughs are caused by viruses and antibiotics do not work on viruses. Antibiotics do work for strep throat, ear and sinus infections and other infections caused by bacteria.
When you overuse antibiotics, some bacterial germs develop ways of fighting off the antibiotics. These kinds of germs are known as antibiotic-resistant bacteria or "super bugs". If your child gets an infection from a "super bug", it may be harder to cure. Some children need to go through three, four or five antibiotics to find one that works. Your child may get seriously ill and that is dangerous business!
When your child is sick—ask the doctor these questions:
- Is my child's illness caused by a virus or bacteria?
- When will she/he feel better?
- When should I call your office or come back in if she/he is not getting better?
- What can I do at home to help my child feel better?
Do not ask the doctor for an antibiotic if your child has an infection caused by a virus!
And remember—bacterial infections can be cured by antibiotics, but viral infections never are. "Use Antibiotics Wisely" for your health and the health of your family!
"Use Antibiotics Wisely" is a program of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Maryland Department of Health and Mental hygiene and Johns Hopkins University School of Hygiene and Public Health.
Revised May 16, 2006
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