Chicken soup and other hot liquids, rest, and over-the-counter pain relievers are still the best remedies for the symptoms of colds and flu.
It’s tempting to pressure your doctor to prescribe antibiotics for these illnesses, but antibiotics do not kill the viruses that cause most colds, flu, sore throats, and bronchitis. They only kill bacteria. Taking unneeded antibiotics may even lead to the development of “super bugs” which resist treatment when you really do need antibiotics.
Did you know?
- Antibiotics will not make you feel better or keep other people from catching the cold or flu.
- It’s common for mucus from a cold or flu to change from clear to yellow or green, and it does not mean you have a bacterial infection or need antibiotics.
- Prescription antiviral medications can reduce the severity of the flu, but they must be taken within two days of getting sick.
Source: U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
SNORT, SNIFFLE, SNEEZE.
NO ANTIBIOTICS, PLEASE.
