Using antibiotics when they're not necessary can do more harm than good



DHS Logo Original 07/11/2018
News Release


*For Immediate Release*

November 18, 2024
Contact: Elizabeth Goodsitt/Jennifer Miller 608-266-1683

DHS Encourages Wisconsinites to 'Be Antibiotic Aware' This Respiratory Virus Season

" Using antibiotics when they're not necessary can do more harm than good"

Respiratory virus season is underway in Wisconsin, and it's common this time of year for people to seek antibiotics when sick. When used correctly, antibiotics can help you feel better and save lives. However, when taken unnecessarily, they can cause harmful side effects and contribute to antibiotic resistance. To recognize and raise awareness of safe antibiotic use, Gov. Tony Evers proclaimed this week, November 18-24, as Wisconsin Antibiotic Awareness Week [ [link removed] ], and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is calling attention to the dos and don'ts of taking antibiotics.

"When you are sick, it's tempting to want to try anything to feel better," says State Health Officer and Division of Public Health Administrator Paula Tran. "But it's essential to know that antibiotics do not treat the viral illnesses common this time of year, such as cold, flu, or COVID-19, and taking them can potentially cause side effects."

Antibiotics are only effective for treating certain infections caused by bacteria and when taken correctly, can prevent and treat serious infections and save lives. However, antibiotics don't treat infections caused by viruses (viral infections).

View the entire news release [ [link removed] ].

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