Consumer Information

Antibiotics do not cure viral infections. Viruses cause most common illnesses, such as bronchitis, coughs, colds, runny noses and sore throats. Many viral infections will get better in 7-10 days without taking an antibiotic. Antibiotics are only helpful when used to treat a bacterial infection and when taken exactly as prescribed. Always seek the advice of your doctor before taking antibiotics.

Remember:

• Don't ask for antibiotics if you have a viral infection
  like a cold or the flu.
• Take the antibiotic exactly as the doctor tells you.
• Take all of the medication, even if you feel better.
• Do not save some of your antibiotic for the next time you
  are sick.
• Do not take an antibiotic that is prescribed for someone
  else.
• Talk with your doctor about antibiotic resistance and ask
  what else you can do to feel better sooner.

Educational Information

Many of these files require the free Adobe Acrobat Reader .

Antibiotic Resistance Fact Sheet

Cough & Cold Shopping List

Germbuster Poster

Get Smart Brochure

Get Smart Flyer

Stop the Spread

What You Need to Know About Colds, the Flu and Antibiotics Brochure

---

Virginia Department of Health
Office of Epidemiology
109 Governor Street, Suite 516 East
Richmond, Virginia 23219

Contact us by Email

Phone: 804-864-8141 - Fax: 804-864-8139

---