


Is it true that antibiotics can kill any cold and flu germs in my baby?

Dr Saroja Balan

Neonatologist and paediatrician

No, it isn’t true. Treating a cold or flu with antibiotics is like using nasal drops to treat a stomach ache. Antibiotics kill bacteria, but colds and flu are caused by viruses.

Viruses are a class of germs that aren't anything like bacteria. Antibiotics cannot kill a virus. In fact, no antibiotic will help a cold or flu.

Firstly, staying away from unnecessary antibiotics can help prevent unpleasant side effects, which are most often an upset tummy or diarrhoea, vomiting, a rash and stomach cramps.

Secondly, after taking antibiotics, the bacteria in your baby’s body are more likely to become resistant to them, so the medicines are less likely to work when they need to.

Finally, if antibiotics are used by many people, bacteria gradually become resistant to them. This makes it harder for doctors to treat bacterial infections effectively.

On the other hand, if your child develops a bacterial complication of a cold or flu, an antibiotic may prove helpful. This might be the case if she develops an infection such as an ear infection, bronchitis or pneumonia followed by a cold.

Bear in mind that antibiotics should only be given to treat bacterial infections, not viral ones. They should only be given on the advice of your doctor and in the correct dosage. Never buy these over-the-counter or without a prescription.

Read more on:


Bhanwra, S. 2013. A study of non-prescription usage of antibiotics in the upper respiratory tract infections in the urban population. Journal of Pharmacology & Pharmacotherapeutics 4(1), 62–64.

IAP Mumbai. 2013. FAQs on Seasonal Influenza (including A(H1N1) pdm09 aka 'Swine Flu' . Indian Academy of Pediatrics Mumbai Branch.

Kenealy T, Arroll B. 2013. Antibiotics for the common cold and acute purulent rhinitis. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 6. Art. No.: CD000247.

Spurling GKP, Del Mar CB, Dooley L, et al. 2013. Delayed antibiotics for respiratory infections. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 4. Art. No.: CD004417.

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