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Antibiotics are
miracle drugs that fight infections caused by bacteria. However, some
bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics. We all need to be
concerned about proper use of these drugs. Using an antibiotic
correctly will help ensure that antibiotics will be effective for you
and your family in the future. |

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The Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a national campaign to promote appropriate
antibiotic use in the community -
Get Smart: Know When Antibiotics Work - designed to
reduce inappropriate antibiotic use and the spread of resistance to
antibiotics. Go to their web site to
Take a Quiz to see what you
know and what you need to know about antibiotic use.
Eight Tips to
Get Smart About Antibiotics:
-
Talk with your health care provider about antibiotic
resistance.
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Ask your provider whether an antibiotic is likely to be
beneficial for your illness.
-
Ask your provider what else you can do to feel better
sooner.
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Only use antibiotics when they are likely to be
beneficial.
-
Do not take an antibiotic for a viral infection like a
cold or the flu.
-
Do not save some of your antibiotic for the next time
you get sick.
-
Take an antibiotic exactly as the doctor tells you.
-
Do not take an antibiotic that is prescribed for someone
else.
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Downloads:
Cold or Flu. Antibiotics
Don’t Work for You.
Explains the difference between bacteria and viruses and how bacteria become
resistant. Answers some common questions about when to use an antibiotic.
Runny Nose Q & A
Provides answers to commonly asked questions about using antibiotics for a
child's runny nose.
Fluid in the Middle Ear Q & A
Provides answers to commonly asked questions about using antibiotics for a
child's middle ear infection called Otitis Media with Effusion.
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