Brochure - What's got you sick - adults

Viruses or Bacteria
What’s got you sick?

Antibiotics are only needed for treating certain infections caused by bacteria. Viral
illnesses cannot be treated with antibiotics. When an antibiotic is not prescribed, ask
your healthcare professional for tips on how to relieve symptoms and feel better.

Common Cause
Common Condition
Bacteria

Bacteria
or Virus

Virus

Are
Antibiotics
Needed?

Strep throat

Yes

Whooping cough

Yes

Urinary tract infection

Yes

Sinus infection

Maybe

Middle ear infection

Maybe

Bronchitis/chest cold (in
otherwise healthy children
and adults)*

No*

Common cold/runny nose

No

Sore throat (except strep)

No

Flu

No

* Studies show that in otherwise healthy children and adults, antibiotics for bronchitis won’t help you feel better.

To learn more about antibiotic
prescribing and use, visit
www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use.