20/11/2025
World Antibiotic Awareness Week 💊
As a children’s GP, I’d love to use this week to gently remind all parents how important it is to use antibiotics wisely - for our children today and for their great-grandchildren in the future.
🦠 Bacterial vs Viral – What’s the difference?
Not all infections need antibiotics.
• Bacterial infections (like some ear infections, meningitis, UTIs, strep throat or pneumonia) can respond to antibiotics.
• Viral infections (like colds, flu, RSV, most sore throats and tummy bugs) do not get better with antibiotics and children recover beautifully with supportive care if they have no signs of bacterial infection.
💛 Supporting Your Child Through Illness:
When your child has a viral illness, what they often need most is:
• Plenty of fluids
• Rest
• Fever or pain management
• Nasal saline, saline neb and suction for little ones
• Lots of cuddles and time
These measures help them feel better while their immune system does the real work 🦠
💊 Why Antibiotic Stewardship Matters:
Using antibiotics when they’re not needed can cause bacteria to become resistant. That means antibiotics may not work when we truly need them - now or in the future. Responsible use today helps ensure these life-saving medicines remain effective for generations to come.
👩⚕️ Trust the Process:
As doctors, we carefully assess when antibiotics are necessary. If we don’t prescribe them, it’s because they won’t help - and might even cause harm. Our goal is always to ensure your child gets the safest, most effective care. Note: Yes sometimes children may develop a secondary bacterial infection during a viral illness and so if the child changes/deteriorates or doesn’t improve book a review/follow up with your doctor. Always trust your gut I say to my parents as you know your child the best!
Together, we can protect the power of antibiotics - for our kids, their future families and our world 🌍
