Viruses v's Bacteria - when do we use antibiotics?
Throughout the year we see lots of illness in the community.
But when do we need antibiotics?
It's important to differentiate between illnesses that require treatment with antibiotics and those that do not. Avoiding unnecessary use of antibiotics prevents the development of antibiotic resistant bacteria in our community. Antibiotics only treat bacterial infections. Viral illnesses cannot not be treated with antibiotics.
Common Condition: | Bacterial? | Bacterial or Viral? | Viral? | Are Antibiotics Needed? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Whooping Cough | X |
|
| Yes |
Urinary Tract Infection | X |
|
| Yes |
Sinus Infection |
| X |
| Maybe |
Middle Ear Infection |
| X |
| Maybe |
Sore Throat |
| X |
| Maybe |
Bronchitis / Chest Cold (in otherwise healthy child or adults)* |
| X |
| No |
Common Cold / Runny Nose |
|
| X | No |
Flu |
|
| X | No |
*In some cases, acute bronchitis is caused by bacteria, but even in these cases antibiotics still do not help.
At Glebe Hill Family Practice our General Practitioners are trained and experienced in diagnosing your illness, and prescribing the appropriate treatment.
When you're unwell, an antibiotic may or may not be prescribed, but your General Practitioner can provide advice on how to relieve symptoms and feel better.
