Castro County Healthcare wants to extend educational material to the community that will not only improve their health, but help them understand why their provider’s will either prescribe or not prescribe them antibiotics.
“A common cold and a bacterial infection are very different,” stated Linda Aguero, Clinic Director. “Your common cold or flu is a viral infection and antibiotics will not work.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises patients and their families to use antibiotics only when necessary to further reduce antibiotic resistance, the spread of superbugs, and protect patients from any antibiotic side effects.
It is important to know that using antibiotics when they are not needed cause bacteria to become resistant to the antibiotic, which can make them harder to cure and could require stronger treatment. So, protect yourself and your family with the best care and talk with your healthcare provider at the Medical Center of Dimmitt about the right medicines for your health.
The CDC also states to always turn to your provider to learn more. They also remind you that if you are prescribed an antibiotic for a bacterial infection, like strep throat, some pneumonia, and sinus infection, to take all the medication prescribed. Not finishing the medicine can cause resistance bacteria to develop, making it harder for your body to fight an infection in the future.
So “get smart” and know that antibiotics are not always the answer. For more information, talk to your healthcare provider at the Medical Center of Dimmitt, 806-647-2194, or visit www.cdc.gov/getsmart.