Antibiotic misuse risk rises in seasonal illness, experts warn

Experts say antibiotics do not work on viral fever, cold, cough or sore throat, and urge patients to see a doctor before taking any.

Health experts warn against taking antibiotics without medical advice for fever, cold, cough and sore throat.

Doctors say most seasonal respiratory illnesses are caused by viruses, which antibiotics cannot treat.

Misuse can accelerate drug resistance, making routine infections harder to treat.

Experts urge patients not to demand antibiotics, use leftover prescriptions, or change doses without a doctor.

Recommended steps include handwashing, personal hygiene, a balanced diet and limiting close contact with sick people.

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