Antibiotics and Hand-Hygiene
What Are Antibiotics?
Antibiotics are powerful medicines that help cure certain illnesses like strep throat, urinary tract infections, and some ear and sinus infections. They will not cure-or even help-other illnesses such as: chest colds, bronchitis, and flu.
What If You're Not Sure You Need An Antibiotic?
Ask your doctor. He or she knows when you or your children need an antibiotic. Then trust your doctor's advice.
What Happens If You Take Antibiotics When You Don't Need Them?
If you or your children take an antibiotic when it's not needed, it loses its ability to fight infections. This means the next time you or your children really need the antibiotic, it might not work.
Antibiotics Do Not Work For:
Colds
Bronchitis
Flu
Green/Yellow Runny Nose
Antibiotics Do Work For:
Strep Throat
Urinary Tract Infections
Some Sinus Infections
If You Do Not Get An Antibiotic For Your Illness:
Get extra sleep.
Drink extra fluids.
Try a non-prescription pain reliever.
Try over-the-counter cold and cough medicine.
If You Do Get An Antibiotic For Your Illness:
Take the medication exactly as the doctor has instructed.
Always take the full prescription.
Never share prescription medicine with other family members or friends.
Materials in English and Spanish:
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English Brochure |
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Spanish Brochure |
| Rack Cards | |
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English Rack Card |
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Spanish Rack Card |
| Print Materials | |
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Antibiotics Fact Sheet |
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Antibiotics Article |
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Antibiotics Press Release |
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Media
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English Antibiotics Radio Spot |
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Spanish Antibiotics Radio Spot |
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Print Materials from the CDC
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Get Smart: Know When Antibiotics Work |
For additional information about Antibiotics Are Not Always The Answer, or for samples of print materials, contact the
New Mexico Department of Health
(505) 827-0006
or
The CDC hotline
1-888-246-2675
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