During winter, we catch more colds and flu, which are caused by viruses. Antibiotics have no effect on viruses, so please do not expect a prescription for an antibiotic if you have a cold or flu.

Antibiotic resistance (when antibiotics no longer work) can result from misuse and overuse of antibiotics, so doctors do their best to avoid prescribing them for viral conditions or when they are not needed. However, if you are prescribed an antibiotic for a particular condition, please make sure you follow the instructions the doctor or pharmacist gives you.