Senator Joey Hensley, MD

As the holiday season nears with all the joy it brings, we also must be aware that respiratory viruses will appear and spread through houses and communities. Between travel, family gatherings, Christmas shopping, and other indoor festivities, unfortunately, this is the perfect storm for viruses to spread. During this time, it is important to know that antibiotics cannot defend against or treat viruses. They are ineffective against colds, runny noses, most sore throats, COVID-19 and the flu. Even some bacterial infections that cause sinus infections and ear infections will get better on their own without antibiotics. In fact, using antibiotics to treat viruses like the common cold could cause harm to the health and well-being of not only yourself but the community as a whole. The more often antibiotics are used, the less effective they are in treating the infections that can be cured by antibiotics.

The incorrect use of antibiotics can cause a multitude of issues, including the development of antibiotic resistance. When used inappropriately, bacteria can evolve and become resistant to the drugs that once worked against them. If a person with antibiotic resistance contracts a serious infection, it can be life-threatening because antibiotics could be ineffective in fighting off the infection.

With Antibiotic Awareness Week approaching, many doctors and healthcare providers, like myself, are drawing attention to the way antibiotics should and should not be used. The following are ways that you can take action to keep yourself and your community healthy:

Understand the cause of your illness and have reasonable expectations. Many common respiratory infections will cure themselves through rest and self-care. If conditions continue to worsen, I recommend going to your doctor.

Seek out food brands that discourage routine use of antibiotics in animals. Increasingly, many conventional and organic food brands are now committed to no or minimal antibiotic use in animals.

Stay away from people that you know are contagious. This seems obvious, but it is extremely important in keeping everyone safe.

We are grateful for the proven benefits of antibiotics, which can be life-saving. Antibiotics have forever changed medicine in a positive manner. They have allowed for advancements to be made in cancer treatments and organ transplants, as well as making childbirth safer. The discovery of antibiotics in the form of penicillin nearly 100 years ago was a game changer for medicine. This discovery revolutionized healthcare in many ways. However, as with many things in life, too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. The overuse of penicillin and other antibiotics has compromised the effectiveness of the treatments. In the medical community, we recognize and value the importance of antibiotics. Simultaneously, we know antibiotics are not a “cure-all” drug and must be used correctly. So this winter season when you or someone in your family catches a cold or other virus, talk to your doctor about the appropriate treatment, and keep in mind that most often rest is the best cure.

The holiday season is the best time of the year for many reasons. Let’s enjoy this time of fellowship with family and friends. Be safe everyone!