Everyone has germs in their bodies called bacteria and viruses. There are “good bacteria” that help keep us healthy, but viruses usually make us sick.
Antibiotics are powerful medications that can fight infections and save lives by killing bacteria in your body. While antibiotics can help cure your bacterial infections, they won’t help you fight a virus like a cold or the flu – and taking an antibiotic when you don’t need it can have serious consequences.
The good news? If you know the difference between bacteria and viruses – and when it’s appropriate to take antibiotics – you can fight infections properly and feel better the healthy way.
Learn more about bacteria, viruses and antibiotics.
The flu is a common respiratory illness caused by an influenza virus. It’s highly contagious and normally spreads through the coughs and sneezes of an infected person.
A common mistake is trying to take antibiotics for the flu, which is a viral infection.
Since antibiotics can only treat sicknesses caused by bacteria, they won’t help you feel better if you have flu symptoms. In fact, in many cases, taking antibiotics for the flu can make you sicker or make your sickness last longer.
Experts agree that the best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated every year. You should also make sure to cover your sneeze or cough, and wash your hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand gel. (Want more ways to protect yourself? Check out our 14 tips proven to help prevent the flu.
If you do get sick with a fever and flu-like symptoms, stay home until your symptoms go away – and encourage others to do the same. If your symptoms become severe, make sure to see your doctor or use one of our online or walk-in options for care.
Data show that at least 30 percent of antibiotics prescribed in doctors’ offices, emergency departments and hospital clinics are unnecessary. Here’s how you can help stop antiobiotic misuse:
Do:
Don’t:
While a virus that causes cold or flu symptoms can be fought off by your immune system, if your symptoms last 10 days, you may need stronger treatment that your doctor can prescribe. Learn more about the difference between bacteria and viruses, and when it’s best to seek medical care.
At Atrium Health, we spread antibiotic education to our doctors through our Antimicrobial Support Network and collaborative, which work with doctors to make sure patients are prescribed the most appropriate antibiotics. The ultimate goal is to improve your care and safety. Learn more about how we're doing it.