United Health Foundation

Antibiotics are miracle drugs that fight infections caused by bacteria, but the bacteria that antibiotics controls have developed resistance to these drugs. For this reason, we all have reason to be concerned. But knowing when an antibiotic is appropriate and when it isn't and only using them, when prescribed, will help ensure that when you or your family need an antibiotic . . . they will be effective.

View the Print Ad or the Tips Card

The Centers for Disease Control ( CDC) has a National Campaign for Appropriate Antibiotic Use 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 on how can you prevent antibiotic-resistant infections.

Talk with your health care provider about antibiotic resistance.
Ask whether an antibiotic is likely to be beneficial for your illness.
Ask what else you can do to feel better sooner.
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.
Only use antibiotics when they are likely to be beneficial.

Downloads:

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 condition called Otitis Media with Effusion (OME) or fluid in the middle ear.

Antibiotic Resistance
Explains the difference between bacteria and viruses and how bacteria become resistant and answers some common questions about when it is and is not appropriate to use an antibiotic.