Common colds need common sense, not antibiotics

Antibiotics don’t work on common colds, is one of the main messages of the national ‘common colds need common sense, not antibiotics’ campaign launched on 4 June.

Organised by the National Prescribing Service Limited (NPS), the aim of the campaign is to educate people as to why they shouldn’t expect to be prescribed antibiotics when they have a cold.

Antibiotics are designed to treat bacterial illnesses and do not work against most colds, coughs and sore throats which are usually viral infections.

The unnecessary use of antibiotics is a very important public health concern. Australia is estimated to be among the highest users of antibiotics in the world and studies show that countries with greater use of antibiotics in the community have higher levels of antibiotic resistance.

Using antibiotics when they are not needed makes them less effective for when they are needed.

More than 200 different viruses cause common colds and on average, adults may get 2-4 colds per year.

See your doctor or pharmacist if other health conditions worsen during your cold or if symptoms come on suddenly, are severe or last longer than usual.