Proper use of antibiotics focus of special week

Each year health care providers in the U.S. prescribe tens of millions of antibiotics for viral infections. The problem is that antibiotics kill only bacterial - not viral - infections. The McHenry County Department of Health joins the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to bring attention to this increasing problem by promoting "Get Smart about Antibiotics Week" Oct. 6-10.

What do sinusitis, most sore throats, bronchitis, runny noses and the regular cold have in common? They are upper respiratory tract infections usually caused by viruses that can't be cured with antibiotics. As we enter this year's cold and flu season, parents should not insist on getting antibiotics when a health care provider says they are not needed. Antibiotics won't work on colds or flu.

Dr. Lauri Hicks, Medical Director of CDC's Get Smart campaign states, "If the health care provider's recommendation is to wait, then wait. People need to be patient and let the body do its work." Taking antibiotics when you don't need them or not as prescribed increases your risk of getting an infection later that resists antibiotic treatment, making it harder to treat with more expensive medications.

What can you do?

You should only use antibiotics that are prescribed to you by a health care provider. Always follow the instructions on the label and properly dispose of any leftover medication. Eighty percent of common infections are spread by hands that have not been washed. Hand washing is the cheapest, simplest, and most effective way of preventing sickness in the first place, so you don't need an antibiotic at all. Getting a flu shot and avoiding close contact with people who are sick will also keep you healthy. Visit MCDH at mcdh.info to schedule your flu shot or call (815) 334-4510.