By only taking antibiotics when you need them, you can help slow the spread of superbugs. That way, antibiotics will continue to cure infections caused by bacteria — now and in the future.
You can also help save antibiotics by buying meat and poultry products sold by companies with responsible antibiotic use policies. Look for labels that say organic, raised with antibiotics and no antibiotics ever.
If your snot is yellow or green, you definitely need antibiotics.
Truth
Your snot won’t tell you much about your infection — except that it comes with a runny nose! Your best bet is to see a doctor. They can tell you if an antibiotic will help you feel better.
True or False:
Washing your hands with regular soap and water isn’t enough. To kill germs, you need to use antibacterial soap.
Actually, studies have shown that antibacterial soap doesn’t work better for washing your hands than soap and water. In most situations, regular soap and water is the way to go!
Bravo! In most situations, regular soap and water is the best way to wash your hands. Studies have shown that antibacterial soap doesn’t work any better.
Be an antibiotic hero!
I’m Stewart, mild-mannered sick guy and antibiotic champion! I’m doing my part to slow the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria — and help make sure antibiotics are always here for us when we need them. Explore the plus signs below to find out how.
I don’t borrow or reuse antibiotics.
If I’m feeling sick, I go to my doc. She’ll tell me whether antibiotics will help — and make sure I get the right prescription for my infection.
I wash my hands — a lot.
I dig soap and water! It helps me stay healthy — and, when I do get sick, it keeps me from spreading my illness around.
I stay on top of my vaccines.
If I don’t get sick, I won’t need antibiotics! Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to avoid infection and stay healthy.
I lie on the couch heroically.
When I have a cold or flu, I stay home and rest. It helps me feel better faster. Plus, I’m less likely to get other people sick.
I don’t bug my doctor for antibiotics.
In fact, I told my doc that I don’t want antibiotics unless they’re actually going to help me feel better.
I use over-the-counter medicines.
When I’m feeling sick, I use stuff like cough drops and nasal spray for my symptoms. And I guzzle healthy fluids, like herbal tea!
