Most of us know that colds and other respiratory infections are caused by germs. But it's just as important to know what kind of germ. Is the infection due to bacteria or viruses, and will an antibiotic really help you get better?
Antibiotics are powerful medications that work against bacterial infections but not against viruses. Since all colds, laryngitis and influenza are caused by viruses, and not by bacteria, antibiotics won't help your recovery. Viruses also cause most sore throats, coughs, bronchitis, sinus infections and ear infections. In fact the majority of respiratory infections are caused by viruses and antibiotics won't work. The exception is pneumonia. Pneumonia is a very serious respiratory infection. It is often caused by bacteria and can usually be cured with antibiotics.
If you have a question about what's causing your respiratory infection, ask your doctor. You may not receive an antibiotic, but your doctor or pharmacist can give you advice about what you can do to feel better.
Unnecessary use of antibiotics is one of the main reasons antibiotic resistance is increasing, so use them wisely.
Antibiotics work by killing bacteria or stopping them from multiplying. Before antibiotics were discovered, common infections such as pneumonia or those associated with childbirth or wounds often resulted in death. Antibiotics have saved millions of lives. But these same miracle drugs are gradually losing their effectiveness. Resistant bacteria have emerged that are able to avoid being killed by antibiotics. Unnecessary use of antibiotics contributes to the rise of resistance in bacteria. Twenty years ago penicillin was able to cure over 95% of cases of pneumonia, but now, for some cases of pneumonia, there are no antibiotics that will work.
Antibiotic resistance is a serious medical problem. Resistant infections can result in longer illness, hospitalization and sometimes death.
What you need to know:
Antibiotics will not help you get over a viral infection.
If you are not prescribed an antibiotic, it is because your infection is most likely caused by a virus.
If you are prescribed an antibiotic, take all of the medication until it is finished, even if you are feeling better.
Protect yourself against viral infections: get an annual flu shot and wash your hands frequently to avoid spreading infections to yourself and others.
November 14 to 20, 2011 is Antibiotic Awareness Week and several Canadian organizations are working to promote the prudent use of antibiotics. For more information on how to use antibiotics wisely, visit AntibioticAwareness.ca.
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