Antibiotics Aren’t Always the Answer
Chart of common conditions and whether or not antibiotics are needed
- Strep throat: Caused by bacteria. Antibiotic needed.
- Whooping cough: Caused by bacteria. Antibiotic needed.
- Urinary tract infection: Commonly caused by bacteria. Antibiotic needed.
- Sinus infection: Commonly caused by bacteria or a virus. Antibiotic may be needed.
- Middle ear infection: Commonly caused by bacteria or a virus. Antibiotic may be needed.
- Bronchitis/chest cold (in otherwise healthy children and adults)*: Commonly caused by bacteria or a virus. Antibiotic not needed.
- Common cold/runny nose: Caused by a virus. Antibiotic not needed.
- Sore throat (except strep): Commonly caused by a virus. Antibiotic not needed.
- Flu: Caused by a virus. Antibiotic not needed.
*Studies show that in otherwise healthy children and adults, antibiotics for bronchitis won’t help you feel better.