Antibiotic Misuse -You Could Be Doing It

Antibiotics that are overused or misused can lead to “superbugs.” These are bacteria that can’t be killed by antibiotics. Some of these bacteria can be deadly if they get in your body. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention says this is one of the top health threats in our world today.

What can you do to prevent antibiotic misuse?

*  Antibiotics do not treat viruses. Do not ask your doctor for an antibiotic for a viral illness.

*  Do not take antibiotics unless your doctor prescribes them – and don’t save old antibiotics.

*  Take your antibiotics exactly as your doctor tells you.

*  Finish your entire course of antibiotics – even if you feel better.

*  Do not take someone else’s antibiotics.

*  Don’t share your antibiotics with others.

Antibiotics DO NOT cure viruses such as:

*  Colds

*  The flu

*  Most sore throats

*  Many sinus infections

*  Many eat infections

*  Ear infections

Taking an antibiotic for a virus:

*  DOES NOT PREVENT spreading the virus to others

*  DOES NOT HELP you feel better

Illnesses that should be treated with antibiotics include:

*  Whooping cough (pertussis)

*  Strep throat

*  Urinary tract infections

If we only use antibiotics when needed, we can help stop more superbugs from spreading.