What Can Parents Do About Antibiotic Overuse?

Educate yourself about antibiotics. Learn what antibiotics are, how they work, and when they are appropriate to use. This information will help you make informed decisions about when to give your child antibiotics.

Talk to your doctor about antibiotics. When your child is sick, talk to your doctor about whether antibiotics are necessary. Antibiotics are not always the best treatment for every illness. Your doctor can help you decide what treatment is best for your child.

Follow your doctor's instructions for using antibiotics. If your doctor prescribes antibiotics for your child, be sure to follow the instructions carefully. This includes giving the medication for the full course of treatment, even if your child starts to feel better. Stopping antibiotics too early can lead to antibiotic resistance.

Avoid using antibiotics for viral illnesses. Antibiotics are not effective against viral illnesses, such as the common cold and flu. Using antibiotics for viral illnesses can lead to antibiotic resistance.

Encourage your child to wash their hands frequently. This is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of bacteria and reduce the risk of infection.

Keep your child's vaccinations up to date. Vaccinations can help protect your child from serious bacterial infections, such as pneumonia and meningitis.

Be aware of the signs of antibiotic resistance. If your child is taking antibiotics and develops a new infection, or if their infection does not improve after taking antibiotics, it is possible that they have antibiotic resistance. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about antibiotic resistance.

By following these tips, you can help reduce the risk of antibiotic overuse and antibiotic resistance.