Viral infections cause most coughs, sore throats and all colds. People recover from viral infections when the illness has run its course.
Antibiotics are among the most powerful and important medicines known.
Each time antibiotics are taken, sensitive bacteria are killed, but resistant ones may be left to grow and multiply. Some resistant strains of bacteria are already untreatable. Nearly one-fourth of Americans misuse antibiotics. Inappropriate uses can result from incorrect diagnosis of infections, unnecessary prescriptions for strong, broad-spectrum antibiotics, repeated and improper use of antibiotics, and pressure placed upon physicians by patients to provide treatment. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria can be spread to others in the family, community, and hospital.