With the arrival of seasonal changes, cases of respiratory infections and other common illnesses tend to rise. However, many patients continue to wonder: Is it a viral or bacterial infection? Are antibiotics needed? An analysis of the most common infections reveals that in most cases, antibiotics are not necessary.
Infections such as the common cold, flu, Covid-19, laryngitis, and acute bronchitis are caused by viruses and typically resolve without antibiotic treatment. These illnesses usually last between one and three weeks and are mainly treated with rest, hydration, and medications to relieve symptoms.
Other infections such as rhinosinusitis, sore throat, ear infections, or COPD exacerbations can be caused by either viruses or bacteria. In these cases, antibiotics may be needed, but only in specific situations and always under medical supervision.
In contrast, infections such as pneumonia and urinary tract infections are usually bacterial in origin and do require antibiotics for proper treatment. Pneumonia, for example, can last between one and two weeks, while urinary tract infections are often resolved within a few days with the right medication.
Health authorities stress that the indiscriminate use of antibiotics contributes to the development of antibiotic resistance, a global public health concern. Therefore, they strongly advise against self-medication and recommend consulting a healthcare professional to determine the cause of the infection and the most appropriate treatment.
In summary, most common infections are viral and do not require antibiotics. Their use should be reserved exclusively for cases where there is confirmation or strong suspicion of a bacterial infection.
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