Your Child and
Antibiotics
Unnecessary
Antibiotics CAN Be Harmful
About antibiotics
Antibiotics are
among the most powerful and important medicines known. When used properly
they can save lives, but used improperly, they can actually harm your child.
Antibiotics should not be used to treat viral infections.
Bacteria and
viruses
Two main types of
germs—bacteria and viruses—cause most infections. In fact, viruses cause
most coughs and sore throats and all colds. Bacterial infections can be
cured by antibiotics, but common viral infections never are. Your child
recovers from these common viral infections when the illness has run its
course.
Resistant bacteria
New strains of
bacteria have become resistant to antibiotics. These bacteria are not killed
by the antibiotic. Some of these resistant bacteria can be treated with more
powerful medicines, which may need to be given by vein (IV) in the hospital,
and a few are already untreatable. The more antibiotics prescribed, the
higher the chance that your child will be infected with resistant bacteria.
How bacteria become
resistant
Each time we take
antibiotics, sensitive bacteria are killed, but resistant ones may be left
to grow and multiply. Repeated use and improper use of antibiotics are some
of the main causes of the increase in resistant bacteria. These resistant
bacteria can also be spread to others in the family and community.
When are
antibiotics needed, and when are they not needed?
This complicated
question is best answered by your doctor, and the answer depends on the
specific diagnosis. Here are a few examples:
 |
Ear infections.
There are several types; most need antibiotics, but some do not. |
|
Sinus
infections. Most children with thick or green mucus do not have sinus
infections. Antibiotics are needed for some long-lasting or severe
cases. |
|
Cough or
bronchitis. Children rarely need antibiotics for bronchitis. |
|
Sore throat.
Most cases are caused by viruses. Only one main kind, "strep throat,"
requires antibiotics. This kind must be diagnosed by a laboratory test. |
|
Colds.
Colds are caused by viruses and may sometimes last for 2 weeks or more.
Antibiotics have no effect on colds, but your doctor may have suggestions
for comfort measures while the illness runs its course. |
The infection may
change
Viral infections may
sometimes lead to bacterial infections. But treating viral infections with
antibiotics to prevent bacterial infections does not work, and may lead to
infection with resistant bacteria. Keep your doctor informed if the illness
gets worse or lasts a long time, so that proper treatment can be given, as
needed.
You can protect
your child from resistant bacteria
Learn about the
differences between bacterial and viral infections, and talk to your child’s
doctor about them. Understand that antibiotics should not be used for viral
infections.
Copyright 1996, Rev. 2002
American Academy of Pediatrics
