For information on what an antibiotic is, click here. Additional references and links may be found at the bottom of this page. It is often characterized by a sore throat, a runny, stuffy nose, a cough that can persist for two weeks, a headache, and muscle aches and pains. Young people can expect between two and nine viral URI's per year. They are especially common in settings like college where people eat, sleep, work and socialize in close proximity.
Viruses cause most sore throats and coughs and all colds.
Antibiotics have serious side effects and inappropriate use can result in the development of resistant bacteria. Colds can be associated with changes in the color and consistency of your mucus. They are NOT an indication for antibiotics. Acute bronchitis in a nonsmoker is primarily caused by viruses. Airway inflammation and phlegm production with a cough are nonspecific responses and do NOT mean a bacterial infection.