Taking antibiotics for colds and flu? There's no point

Are you feeling under the weather, with a cold, cough, or maybe even the flu? One thing that you should know, and always remember, is that antibiotics don't work against infections caused by viruses, such as colds and flu. Taking antibiotics when you don't need them is a waste. It can also mean that they won't work when you really need them for a serious infection and put you at risk of side effects.

Visit the HSE's common ailments website www.undertheweather.ie for advice and videos on how to get over illnesses like colds, coughs, flu, earaches, sore throats, rashes, fever and tummy bugs without the need for antibiotics. Get advice and get better.

	All About Antibiotics - If you or a loved one is ill, find out when you should use antibiotics, and when you shouldn't.
	Health A-Z - Get advice from health experts on how to manage a cold or flu at home, with support from your GP and your Pharmacist. See Health A-Z topics on Common cold | Flu | Sore throat |Cough
	Information for Health Professionals- Access online Guidelines for Antimicrobial Prescribing here, along with links to more info from the HPSC, RCPI, ICGP
	Campaign materials- See the resources that are now available at your GP or your local Pharmacy. Our campaign is supported by the Irish College of General Practitioners, the Irish Pharmacy Union and the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland.
	Dr Nuala O'Connor explains why GPs need to change prescribing habits