Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

This material was prepared by TMF Health Quality Institute, the Medicare Quality Innovation Network Quality Improvement Organization, under contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The contents do not necessarily reflect CMS policy. 11SOW-QINQIO-C3.10-17-29 Published 10/2017

Antibiotics only treat bacterial infections. Viral illnesses cannot be treated with antibiotics. When an antibiotic is not prescribed, ask your health care professional for tips on how to relieve symptoms and feel better. Antibiotics Aren’t Always the Answer.

* In some cases, acute bronchitis is caused by bacteria; however, even in these cases, antibiotics still do not help.

Common Conditions: Will Antibiotics Help?

Common Cause Are Antibiotics

Needed?BacteriaBacteria or Virus

Virus

Strep throat 3 Yes

Whooping cough 3 Yes

Urinary tract infection 3 Yes

Sinus infection 3 Maybe

Middle ear infection 3 Maybe

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

3 No

Common cold/runny nose 3 No

Sore throat 3 No

Flu 3 No

Viruses or Bacteria What’s got you sick?Viruses or Bacteria What’s got you sick?