Using Antibiotics Wisely

    Infections are caused by two main types of germs--bacteria and viruses. Bacterial infections can be cured by antibiotics--viral infections cannot.
    Viral infections cause all colds and most coughs and sore throats. People recover from viral infections when the illness has run its course.
    Viral infections may sometimes lead to bacterial infections.

Doctors and pharmacists in hospitals and health systems can tell you when antibiotics are needed. For example: Ear infections: There are several types; most need antibiotics, but some do not. Sinus infections: Antibiotics are needed for some long-lasting or severe cases. Cough or bronchitis: Antibiotics are rarely needed for bronchitis. Sore throats: Viruses cause most sore throats. Only "strep throat," which is diagnosed with a laboratory test, requires antibiotics. Common colds: Antibiotics have no effect on colds.

    Antibiotics are among the most powerful and important medicines known. Each time you take antibiotics, weaker bacteria are killed, but hardier ones may be left to grow and multiply.
    Most strains of antibiotic-resistant bacteria start in hospital intensive care units (ICUs). Therefore, untreatable and hard-to-treat bacteria are much more common in hospitals than in the community at large.
    Antibiotics are often used before and after surgery to protect patients from infection.
    Patients who are vulnerable to antibiotic-resistant bacteria include: Premature infants and children, The elderly, Burn victims, Bone marrow transplant patients, and Patients with weakened immune systems (i.e., AIDS, leukemia).
    Pharmacists in hospitals and health systems ensure that patients receive the right type of antibiotics. They also help create procedures to prevent the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in hospitals and other health-care facilities.