Taking antibiotics encourages harmful bacteria that live inside you to become resistant. This means that antibiotics may not work when you really need them, putting you and your family at risk of a more severe or longer illness. Remember, if you are feeling unwell, antibiotics aren’t always needed. Take the advice of your Doctor or Pharmacist.
No one likes being sick and it’s especially upsetting when your child is ill. Remember antibiotics aren’t always needed.
How to look after yourself and your family:
If you or your child are feeling unwell, have a cold or flu and you haven’t been prescribed antibiotics, here are some effective self-care ways to help you feel better:
- Ask your Pharmacist to recommend medicines to help with symptoms or pain. They can also provide advice on treating minor health concerns and healthy living
- Get plenty of rest
- Make sure you or your child drink enough to avioid feeling thirsty
- Fever is a sign the body is fighting the infection and usually gets better by itself in most cases. You can use paracetamol if you or your child are uncomfortable as a result of a fever
- Make sure to use a tissue for your nose and wash your hands frequently to avoid spreading your infection to family and friends.
Download this leaflet for more information: Do I need Antibiotics or go to the HSC Public Health Agency Website Page: Taking Antibiotics