With cold and flu season on its way, clinics will be filled with patients looking for some relief. But ANTIBIOTICS DO NOT WORK AGAINST COLDS OR FLU. They are caused by viruses. Do not request antibiotics from your doctor unless you have a specific bacterial infection.

- Most sore throats are also caused by viruses. One exception is strep throat, which is caused by bacteria. A throat culture can diagnose strep and antibiotic treatment is needed.

- Viruses are almost always the culprit behind most coughs and bronchitis. However, if symptoms last for more than two weeks or if the patient has a respiratory condition, they need to see a doctor to determine if an antibiotic is needed.

- Sinus infections are one of the most common complaints seen by physicians. These can be caused by bacteria or viruses. One common misconception is that if the symptoms include yellow or green mucus, it's a bacterial infection. Not necessarily. A virus could be the cause. However, antibiotics should only be used for a SEVERE infection, or one that lasts more than two weeks because that one is probably being caused by bacteria.

- When an antibiotic is prescribed, it is extremely important to take ALL of the doses as directed. Too many people quit taking their prescription when they begin to feel better. Some then decide to save the remaining meds for the "next" time that they get sick. However, if the full round of medication is not taken, the "remaining" bacteria could bring the infection back worse than ever. The best defense against an infection is to take the prescribed number of doses on the prescribed schedule. (However, one problem that should be noted here is that in a recent survey of patients who have been subscribed antibiotics, many say they were never told the importance of finishing the medication.)

- Use regular soap and water for washing. Avoid products with antibiotic ingredients on the labels.

- Eat live culture yogurt or probiotics containing acidophilus bacteria after finishing a course of antibiotic treatment. These products will help build up the healthy bacteria in your body.

- You can buy meat and eggs from animals that weren't fed antibiotics. This reduces farm use, and promotes farming that relies on clean living conditions for the animals. 

Know the

Facts!!!!
Courtesy of the Biology II Research Dept.