Are you confused about why your doctor gives you antibiotics for one illness, but doesn't for another? Read on to find out more...

What are antibiotics?

They are medicines that fight infections that are caused by bacteria. If the infection is caused by a virus, antibiotics won't work.

Why is it harmful to take too many antibiotics?

If you take the same antibiotics too often, then the bacteria get used to them and the antibiotics can't fight the germs any more.

Sometimes the germs change on their own and then fight back against the antibiotics and then become 'resistant'.

Taking antibiotics to treat viruses can often cause nasty side-effects like vomiting and diarrhoea.

Many people who think they're allergic to penicillin aren't. The more common explanation is that they were prescribed antibiotics for a viral infection and this caused a rash.

What are bacterial infections?

They are usually infections that are more serious and less common than viral infections. They include some forms of meningitis and pneumonia.

What are viral infections?

Most coughs and colds are viral infections. Some ear and sinus infections fall into this category, as do sore throats and chest colds.

Remember, children can get between 8-10 colds a year and each one lasts from 5-10 days, so when you say something like, 'he's always got a cold', it's not far off the truth.

- Next: which infections need antibiotics?

More help and advice

- Tips to avoid winter coughs and colds
- Preventing colds and flu
- Coughs and cold in children
- All the info on the common cold
- When should I see the doctor about my baby's cough?

By Rob Mansfield

• Next: Which infections need antibiotics?

• Comment on this
• Send to a friend
• Print this page