Dear Parents,
Antibiotics were the miracle drugs of the twentieth century. Because they were so effective in killing bacteria, doctors got in the habit of prescribing antibiotics for everyone with a cold. It was thought to be a wise insurance policy in case the patient developed complications caused by a bacterial infection secondary to the cold.
In our new century, we are now facing the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria that can cause serious life-threatening illnesses. As a result, medical researchers and government agencies are calling for doctors and patients to follow new antibiotic treatment guidelines that can protect us from antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In 1995, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) began a campaign to educate doctors and their patients about the harm from over prescribing antibiotics, especially for colds. Still, large numbers of doctors do not follow these guidelines. USA Today (December 6, 2006) reported that over 42.2% of patients ages 18-24 years received an antibiotic prescription from a doctor who had not seen the patient for the underlying health problem. In fairness to the doctors, many feel pressured by their patients to prescribe antibiotics for viral infections. If the doctor doesn’t prescribe the antibiotic on the grounds that antibiotics don’t cure colds and are not an appropriate form of treatment, he or she stands to hear complaints or lose a dissatisfied patient.
So how should we use antibiotics? Here are some helpful links with facts and tips.
- Recommendations for Appropriate Student Use of Antibiotics (Fronske Position Statement)
- Get Smart: Know When Antibiotics Work (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention campaign)
Figure 1
Cold Symptom Time Line
(From Bates, B. Chart Helps Doctors Say No to Antibiotic Requests.
Family Practice News, 10/1/2002)
Remember, consult with your Fronske health care provider if symptoms do not start to ease within a few days (5-7 days) or if you suspect that a complication is developing.
Be well,
The Fronske Staff
