Poster: Care for your kids - use antibiotics wisely - understanding childhood infections

This poster explains that most childhood coughs and sniffs are caused by viruses. Antibiotics do not work against viruses. 

Usually the best medicine is rest, time and plenty to drink. Antibiotics will not make viral infections go away faster. Giving antibiotics “just in case” may do more harm than good.

Still coughing? Often nothing to worry about. Many children continue coughing for 2-3 weeks after a cold. Talk to your doctor about: what’s normal, warning signs and when to seek help.

If your child has a bacterial infection, antibiotics could be crucial. And then it’s also crucial that they work. Every unnecessary use increases the risk of bacteria becoming resistant to antibiotics. Protect antibiotics so they can protect your children.