Antibiotic Myths and Facts• MYTH: Antibiotics help

reduce the length and severity of a cold or flu

• FACT: Antibiotics have no effect on colds or flu. The “best medicine” is rest.

Antibiotic Myths and Facts• MYTH: All ear infections, sinus

infections and bronchitis need antibiotics

• FACT: Most of these infections will resolve on their own. Now recommend a “wait and see” approach. Take medication for pain and symptom relief. If symptoms don’t improve in a few days then see your doctor.

Antibiotic Myths and Facts• MYTH: Bacteria and infections are

not to be feared anymore because we have good antibiotics

• FACT: - Overuse of antibiotics is decreasing

their effectiveness– Many bacteria have developed

resistance to our current antibiotics.- There are not any new antibiotics

coming in the system

Antibiotics – Proper UseIf you do require an antibiotic:• Important to finish the entire

prescription even if you start feeling better

• Do not share or keep unused antibiotics for another time– Antibiotics are specific to the infection they

are treating– Some antibiotics are not safe in children or

for others.