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World AMR Awareness Week: antibiotics won't fix a cold

neilmcaliece
8 minutes ago
2 min read

World AMR Awareness Week runs from 18 to 24 November 2026. It is a World Health Organization campaign about antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In Australia it is supported by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care. With coughs and colds still going around, it is a good time to look at when antibiotics help and when they don't.

Illustration of a person resting on a sofa with a blanket and a cup of tea. Antibiotics won't fix a cold.

Antibiotics only work on bacteria

Colds, flu, RSV and COVID-19 are caused by viruses. Antibiotics do not work against viruses. They only fight bacteria. That includes most sore throats, ear infections, coughs and colds.

Most people with a viral respiratory infection get better without treatment within 7 to 10 days.

Why "just in case" is a problem

Like all medicines, antibiotics can cause side effects. Taking them when you don't need them means taking that risk for no benefit.

There is a bigger problem too. The more we use antibiotics, the more chance bacteria have to become resistant to them. You don't become resistant to antibiotics. Bacteria do. Resistant infections can be difficult and sometimes impossible to treat. Resistant bacteria can also spread to other people.

The Australian Government says antibiotics are overused in Australia. Everyone has a part to play in keeping them working.

What you can do

  • Remember that antibiotics won't help a cold or the flu.

  • If you're told you don't need antibiotics, ask about other ways to ease your symptoms.

  • If you are prescribed antibiotics, take them exactly as directed.

  • Only take antibiotics prescribed for you. Don't use or share leftovers.

  • Stay home when you're sick with a cold or flu so it doesn't spread.

When to get checked

If you stay unwell or your symptoms get worse, such as a rising fever, it's worth being seen. Your GP can assess you and arrange any testing or treatment you need. That may include antibiotics if they are the right choice for you.

Not sure whether you need an appointment? Call our team on 02 9526 1233. In an emergency, call 000.

Source:

Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, "Antibiotics won't do for colds and flu" (health.gov.au)

Australian Government, Antimicrobial resistance: General public (amr.gov.au)

World Health Organization, World AMR Awareness Week 2026 (who.int)

 
 
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